Lead Assistant Public Defender (Public Defender III)

Responsibilities

Lead Assistant Public Defenders possess a fully advanced litigation skill set, and are proficient at comprehensive motions practice. Attorneys at this level are capable of litigating all severity level cases and regularly are involved in complex statutory, procedural, and constitutional issues within their office.

Lead Assistant Public Defenders exhibit an outstanding dedication to the Public Defender system and its clients. Lead Assistant Public Defenders are capable of assuming informal leadership roles within their office in any areas of practice, including acting as a support for their office management team, and/or assisting with the professional development of less experienced attorneys and staff.

When called upon by their Chief Public Defender, Lead Assistant Public Defenders must assume additional responsibilities in assisting with the development, guidance of others, and/or filling agency-wide, Administrative Office-defined needs. These attorneys maintain the highest standards of professionalism, inspire others, and take active steps to create a positive, safe, and supportive office culture.

Qualifications

• Education and Experience: Must be a graduate from an ABA accredited law school and licensed attorney who is active and in good standing in the State of Kansas at the time of employment. Have a preferred minimum of 5 years of experience in criminal defense or other comparable legal practice.
• Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Must have exceptional communication skills.
  • Ability to effectively communicate in written and oral form.
  • Ability to use all necessary electronic devices including computers, e-filing systems, as well as case management systems.
  • Ability to coordinate with supporting personnel to provide client-centered, holistic representation.
  • Must have appropriate time management skills and organizational skills and demonstrate proficiency of avoiding unnecessary delays in client’s cases through appropriate preparation and planning.
  • Must be able to process, organize and manage complex litigation.
  • Must be able to handle emergency or crisis situations.
  • Must be able to handle frequent interruptions and multiple calls and inquiries.
  • Must be able to effectively interact with clients, co-workers and other colleagues in a respectful and appropriate manner.
  • Must be academically curious about criminal law and procedure.
  • Must be able to treat every client, witness and colleague with dignity and respect without exception.
  • Must demonstrate an on-going commitment to a client-centered practice.
  • Must be able to maintain confidentiality and manage confidential information.
  • Must have a keenly developed and uncompromising set of personal and professional ethics.
  • Occasional travel to other work locations including courts and jail.

Conditions of Employment

• Maintain licensure as an active attorney in good standing in the State of Kansas or; attorneys licensed in another state must be willing and able to seek admission to the Kansas bar immediately upon hire.
• Must have a valid driver’s license where courts and jails are not located within walking distance of the office.

Application Materials Needed

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Writing sample
• List of three professional references
• If you are claiming Veteran’s Preference, please also include your DD214

Application

To apply for this position, please click the link below.

Apply – Lead Assistant Public Defender

Contact Information

If you have any further questions please contact:

Shawn Keeling
Human Resources Professional, Administration Office
State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services
[email protected]