PUBLIC DEFENDER III

About the role

The Arkansas Public Defender Commission seeks an experienced attorney for a half‑time (part‑time) Public Defender III position in the 10th Judicial District, based in Monticello, AR, serving Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Desha, and Drew counties. The half‑time schedule allows the successful applicant to maintain a private law practice while receiving State of Arkansas benefits.

Responsibilities

• Provide advanced legal representation to clients accused of serious criminal offenses, including violent crimes, complex drug offenses, white‑collar crimes, and other high‑stakes felony cases in Circuit Court, Criminal Division.
• Handle all aspects of the defense process: pre‑trial motions, trial preparation, trial advocacy, and post‑conviction matters such as appeals and petitions for relief.
• Develop and implement strategic defense plans incorporating legal research, client interviews, expert testimony, and case law.
• Represent clients in hearings, trials, and post‑conviction proceedings, delivering compelling arguments, examining witnesses, and managing complex evidence.
• Guide clients through the legal process, ensuring they are fully informed about options and rights while advocating for the best possible outcomes.
• Document all plea offers received from the prosecution and ensure they are conveyed to the client for consideration.
• Conduct case reviews and provide feedback to less experienced attorneys; when possible, appear at trial with them to provide guidance.
• Manage a caseload of complex, high‑profile criminal cases, ensuring efficient, thorough handling with attention to detail.
• Actively pursue experience and criteria necessary to be considered for lead or co‑counsel in Capital Murder cases.
• Develop case strategies tailored to individual circumstances, preparing motions, legal briefs, and responses to the prosecution.
• Monitor deadlines, manage case schedules, and ensure timely submission of legal filings, motions, and required documentation.
• Conduct direct and cross‑examinations of witnesses, present evidence, and deliver persuasive opening and closing statements.
• Prepare clients for testimony and court appearances, explaining the process and ensuring emotional and mental readiness.
• Conduct advanced legal research to support case strategies, reviewing statutes, case law, and legal precedents.
• Collaborate with expert witnesses, investigators, and other specialists to gather evidence and build a comprehensive defense.
• Obtain a minimum of six (6) hours of legal education annually in criminal law with a concentration in defending violent felonies.
• Report case dispositions on or before the last day of each month for the preceding thirty (30) days to office staff for submission to the Commission.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience as a practicing attorney, with a focus on criminal defense, public defense, or related legal experience.
• Prior experience handling felony cases and trials is strongly preferred.
• Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas with a valid Arkansas bar membership.
• Ability to pass a pre‑employment background check.

Skills

• In‑depth understanding of Arkansas criminal law, including complex areas of criminal defense and legal ethics.
• Expertise in legal research, case law analysis, and applying statutory law and legal precedents to develop defense strategies.
• Superior public speaking and courtroom advocacy skills, with the ability to present complex legal arguments effectively to judges and juries.
• Ability to manage the challenges of high‑stakes trials, including cross‑examining witnesses, presenting evidence, and making persuasive closing arguments.
• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to anticipate and counter the prosecution’s case in real time during trials.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate complex legal arguments and case strategies.

Benefits

• Eligible for State of Arkansas benefits, including health insurance and retirement.

Pay

Anticipated starting salary: $57,195 (half‑time). The full‑time salary range for Public Defender III is $114,390 – $169,298.

Schedule

Half‑time (part‑time) position.