<p>Description and Functions</p> <p>Open Until Filled</p> <p>GENERAL DESCRIPTION:</p> <p>Are you passionate about protecting constitutional rights and advocating for those who need it most? TheWyoming State Public Defender's Office in Cheyenneis dedicated to ensuring high-quality legal representation for indigent clients. Our attorneys fight for justice and continually develop their advocacy and appellate skills while working alongside experienced mentors in a collaborative and supportive environment.</p> <p>Why Choose a Career with the Wyoming Public Defender's Office?</p> <ul> <li> <p>Unmatched Courtroom Experience:: Unlike larger jurisdictions where new attorneys wait years for serious cases, here you will quickly gain experience in assault, homicide, and felony cases early in your career.</p> </li><li> <p>Mission-Driven Work:Make a real impact by providing legal defense to those who cannot afford private representation.</p> </li><li> <p>Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF):Our positions qualify for PSLF, helping you manage student debt while pursuing meaningful work.</p> </li><li> <p>Mentorship & Professional Growth:Work alongside experienced defenders who are committed to mentoring and supporting new attorneys.</p> </li><li> <p>Competitive Benefits & Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a stable salary, generous paid time off, state retirement benefits, and access to Wyoming's incredible outdoor recreation.</p> </li></ul> <p>Live and Work in Cheyenne, Wyoming</p> <p>As Wyoming's capital and largest city, Cheyenne offers a blend of career opportunities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventure. From historic Western charm to vibrant local events like Cheyenne Frontier Days, you'll be part of a community with a rich legal and political environment. With quick access to hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation in Curt Gowdy State Park and the Medicine Bow National Forest along with a short drive to reach Denver, Colorado, Cheyenne is the perfect place to grow your career while enjoying an excellent quality of life.</p> <p>Join us and build a meaningful career in public defense!</p> <p>Human Resource Contact: Samantha Drew / 307-777-7667 / samantha.drew2@wyo.gov</p> <p>ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.</p> <ul> <li>Client Representation: Defend clients at all stages of criminal proceedings, including arraignments, pre-trial hearings, trials, sentencing, and appeals. </li><li>Case Preparation: Conduct legal research, draft motions, and develop defense strategies tailored to each case. </li><li>Negotiation & Advocacy: Engage in plea negotiations with prosecutors, ensuring outcomes align with clients' best interests. </li><li>Investigation: Work with investigators, expert witnesses, and other resources to gather evidence and build a strong defense. </li><li>Caseload Management: Handle a diverse caseload, ensuring timely case progression and compliance with court deadlines. </li><li>Mentorship & Development: Provide guidance to junior attorneys or legal interns as needed, fostering professional growth within the office. </li><li>Continuing Education: Stay current on changes in criminal law and public defense best practices through ongoing legal education and professional development. </li></ul> <p>Qualifications</p> <p>PREFERENCES/AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:</p> <p>Preference may be given to applicants who are active members of the Wyoming State Bar.</p> <p>You must be licensed to practice law in Wyoming.</p> <p>KNOWLEDGE:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Strong case management and prioritization skills.</p> </li><li> <p>In-depth knowledge of trial procedures, rules of evidence, and criminal statutes.</p> </li><li> <p>Excellent legal research and writing abilities.</p> </li><li> <p>Ability to think quickly, adapt to courtroom challenges, and advocate effectively for clients.</p> </li></ul> <p>MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:</p> <p>Education:</p> <p>Juris Doctorate</p> <p>Experience:</p> <p>0-2 years of relevant legal experience.</p> <p>Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:</p> <p>Requires membership in the State Bar as an Attorney qualified to practice law in this state.</p> <p>Necessary Special Requirements</p> <p>PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:</p> <ul> <li>Travel required - as necessary by the caseload. </li></ul> <p>NOTES:</p> <ul> <li>FLSA: Exempt </li><li>This is an At-Will Position </li></ul> <p>Supplemental Information</p> <p>008-Public Defender - Trial</p> <p>Click here to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.</p> <p>Click here to view the State of Wyoming total Compensation Calculator.</p> <p>URL: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wyoming/default.cfm</p> <p>The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.</p> <p>Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.</p>