Public Defender
Department Public Defender
Supervisor - County Commissioners
Date Revised June 2026
Job Statement
Huntingdon County is seeking a dedicated attorney to serve as Public Defender. The role of'a public defender is to provide legal counsel to indigent defendants, and is expected to handle a high volume of cases with courtesy, professionalism, and integrity.
Job Duties/Responsibilities
Duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Oversee daily operations of the Public Defender's Office
Providing comprehensive legal representation to adults and juveniles facing misdemeanor or felony charges.
Conduct thorough investigations, review discovery, and formulate strong legal defense strategies.
Represent clients at all hearings, including arraignments, preliminary hearings, motions, trials, and sentencing proceedings.
Counsel clients on legal risks and rights and negotiate plea bargains in their best interest. Work closely with investigators, social workers, and administrative staff to build cases.
Job Specifications
Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Licensure: Active license to practice law in Pennsylvania in good standing with the State Bar.
Experience: Minimum of five years of criminal defense litigation experience preferred.
Additional Requirements
Must successfully pass a criminal background check and pre-employment drug screening.
Must be willing and able to travel to attend trainings, conferences, and meetings, including occasional overnight stays.
Physical Requirements
Work is primarily performed indoors in an office environment with adequate space, lighting, temperature, and ventilation.
Public Defender - 2
Regularly required to sit (approximately 75%), stand (approximately 10%), and walk (approximately 15%); occasional reaching, stooping, kneeling, and crouching.
Lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs required occasionally.
Above-average exposure to deadline pressure and stress; must cope with the mental demands of the position.
Pay: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
