Assistant State Public Defender Appellate Attorney - Madison Appellate Office

Full-time, regular position — Madison, WI (17 S Fairchild St, Madison, WI 53703). Classification: Assistant State Public Defender Appellate Attorney (Code 97800).

About the role

The Wisconsin State Public Defender’s Office (SPD) is recruiting one full-time Assistant State Public Defender Appellate Attorney for its Madison Appellate Office. SPD’s mission is to enhance the quality of justice throughout Wisconsin by providing high-quality, cost-effective representation to indigent clients, protecting the rights of accused individuals, and advocating for effective defense services and a rational criminal justice system.

The Appellate Division provides legal representation at the circuit court (trial court) level, court of appeals, and Wisconsin Supreme Court, primarily on direct appeal. Case types include criminal, civil commitment, protective placement (personal guardianship), sexually violent offender commitment, termination of parental rights, and others as specified by state law for juveniles and adults.

SPD fosters an inclusive, human-centered, family-friendly culture where staff are encouraged to bring their “whole self” to work. Professional development is supported through a wide variety of training opportunities. Leadership is dedicated to a work environment where each staff member is treated with respect and dignity, recognizing individual contributions to the team. SPD is committed to diversity in hiring, retention, and career development.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications (required)

• Providing legal representation (e.g., conducting litigation or hearings, negotiating)
• Drafting legal documents (e.g., preparing legal pleadings, motions, briefs)
• Time management skills and the ability to meet hard deadlines for caseload
• Ability to interact professionally with diverse groups (e.g., office staff, clients, opposing counsel, courts)
• Active State of Wisconsin Bar license in good standing

Well-qualified candidates will also have

• Experience representing criminal cases (e.g., conducting litigation or hearings, negotiating)
• Experience drafting legal motions and briefs

Fluency in a foreign language is a plus. A strong sense of commitment and dedication to indigent defense is essential.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health plans
• Generous paid time off: 3.5 weeks of vacation, 9 paid holidays, ample sick leave
• Participation in one of the nation’s top-rated pension plans (Wisconsin Retirement System)
• Potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
• Access to SPD’s Total Rewards Calculator for full compensation details

Pay

Unclassified pay schedule/range 21-75. Starting salary: $38.59 – $59.24 per hour ($80,267.20 – $123,219.20 annually). A one-year probationary period is required. Pay for current state employees will be set in accordance with the Wisconsin State Compensation Plan.

Requirements & compliance

• Criminal background check conducted prior to offer; all qualified applicants with criminal histories considered consistent with applicable law
• No visa sponsorship — candidates must verify identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. (Form I-9)
• Must be admitted to practice law by the Wisconsin Supreme Court prior to start date

Application deadline: 11:59 pm, Monday, November 2, 2026. For questions, contact Maggie Wild at wildm@opd.wi.gov.