Trial Attorney

State of Idaho Opportunity

Public Defender, (Trial Attorney V) State Public Defender?s Office

Full-time (40 hours) - $132,000 annually

The Idaho State Public Defender (SPD) is a newly created state agency which provides trial representation to indigent criminal defendants pursuant to Idaho Code ?? 19-6005, 19-6009 (effective 10/1/24). The SPD is responsible for all indigent defense cases throughout the State of Idaho, including both juveniles and adults.

The SPD values its employees and offers meaningful work that has a direct impact on citizens across the state. Additionally, the SPD is a qualifying employer for the purposes of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

POSITION & RESPONSIBILITIES

Represents clients in the most serious capital cases including the ability to develop and present capital mitigation. Attorneys will be required to lead and direct a team of investigators, experts and mitigation specialists.

Example of Duties

• Represent clients in the most serious felony cases including capital cases;
• Develop and presents capital mitigation;
• Lead and direct a team of investigators, experts and mitigation specialists;
• Prepare and present legal arguments in appeals to district court, ensuring the legal rights of clients are protected at every level;
• Conduct client interviews, develop case strategies, investigate facts, and review evidence to determine the best course of legal action;
• Draft and file necessary motions, briefs, and other legal documents, ensuring compliance with legal procedures and deadlines;
• Negotiate with prosecutors to secure favorable plea agreements or case dismissals when appropriate;
• Appear in court to argue motions, represent clients at hearings, and conduct bench or jury trials as required;
• Collaborate with investigators, social workers, and expert witnesses to support the defense and address client needs holistically;
• Exercise independent judgment in managing caseloads and resolving legal issues with minimal supervision.
• May be asked to train, supervise or oversee other attorneys.
• Stay current on relevant laws, legal precedents, and procedural changes through continuing legal education and training.
• Prepare or oversee the drafting of motions, briefs, memoranda, pleadings and other legal papers;
• Conduct legal research and analyses data and legal documents;
• Apply case law, the Rules of Criminal Procedure, the Rules of Evidence and Constitutional principles;
• Review and synthesize discovery;
• Interview clients early and frequently and make decisions concerning such things as bail, release from custody, and mental competency to stand trial;
• Determine the need for expert witnesses; locate appropriate experts and schedule them for trial if needed;
• Work in the Case Management System (CMS) to document case work and timekeeping in accordance with SPD policy;
• Practice vertical representation in all cases;
• Follow the American Bar Association (ABA) standards for defending attorneys delivering indigent defense; and
Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an accredited college or university school of law.
• Licensed to practice law, with Idaho State Bar Association membership in good standing.
• 5-10 years of experience as a practicing attorney.

• At least 10 years as a practicing attorney.

BENEFITS

Best Retirement Available in The Nation

The State of Idaho has one of the Nation?s best state retirement systems (PERSI) that offers a lifetime benefit. This position is PERSI Retirement eligible, and the duties correspond to General Member - which means a mandatory employee contribution of 7.18% while the employer contributes at a higher rate of 11.96%.

Other Excellent Benefits

• Excellent low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance ? employee coverage for PPO $70.74/month for medical and vision and $12.08/month for dental (full-time).
• Generous vacation and sick leave accrual will begin as soon as you start.
• Paid parental leave.
• Eleven paid holidays per year.
• Multiple retirement savings plans, including optional 401K and Deferred Compensation plan.
• Group Life Insurance/Disability Insurance/Supplemental Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Wellness Programs.

LOCATION

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

HOW TO APPLY

Qualified applicants who would like to apply for this position must submit the following: 1) cover letter, 2) resume, 3) two references, and 4) a writing sample. Application materials must be submitted no later than June 27, 2025. Application materials should be submitted through the Careers with the State of Idaho website, https://statecareers.idaho.gov/, and not directly to the agency.

For assistance on your application, please contact the SPD DHR team at SPDHR@spd.idaho.gov.

EEO/ADA/Veteran:

The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov.

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.

• Benefits may not be applicable for temporary or seasonal positions.
  

Applications will be accepted through 4:59 PM MST on the posting end date.