Dutchess County Public Defenders Office
Salary Range: $93,724-$114,927*
(*commensurate with experience, subject to approval)
This is a permanent position in the Dutchess County Public Defenders Office. Under the
direction and supervision of a Bureau Chief, this is a senior attorney position requiring defense
of all clients assigned to them by the Court or their Bureau Chief. Although direction,
consultation and advice from the Bureau Chief and other higher-level employees will be
available, latitude is given for the exercise of independent judgment with the expectation of full
case management through trial. Senior Assistant Public Defenders shall counsel and represent
clients at every stage of the proceedings either in Criminal court or Family court and shall use
their judgment to initiate such proceedings necessary to protect the rights of the accused, or
rights as provided under case law or applicable statutes. Senior Assistant Public Defenders assist
the Public Defender in the investigation, preparation, case management and appeal in Criminal
or Family court and legal proceedings involving indigent clients. Work is performed in
accordance with guidelines provided in the law. Travel during a workday may be required and
assignments outside of normal working hours may be given.
To view a complete list of job duties, click here.
RECOMMENDED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Admission to the New York State Bar and:
EITHER (A) Three (3) years as a practicing attorney involved with caseload
management, courtroom experience and appellate brief writing or trial
experience;
OR (B) Two (2) years of work experience at a Public Defender’s Office involving
caseload management and extensive court appearances with
commensurate litigation or trial experience.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Candidate must possess a valid New York State Driver License at the time of appointment and to
maintain position
FINGERPRINTING: A fingerprint supported background investigation is required before an
appointment is made to some positions. Pursuant to New York State Executive Law, the
Division of Criminal Justice Services requires that a fee accompany each such request for a
search. It is due once a job offer is made and accepted by the applicant.
Dutchess County offers a diverse working environment and generous benefits package including
13 paid holidays, paid time off, comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance, and NYS
Retirement.
Apply online at www.dutchessny.gov/jobs
Recruitment will be posted until the position is filled.
An EEO/AA Employer
Posted: 3/21/25
