The Idaho State Public Defender (SPD) provides holistic legal representation meeting the highest ethical and professional standards to protect the rights of people who cannot afford to retain counsel. The SPD is responsible for all indigent defense cases throughout the State of Idaho, including both juveniles and adults.
VISION STATEMENT
A fair and just legal defense system that values the humanity and dignity of all.
SPECIAL NOTIFICATION: This position is a non-classified position and is exempt from classified state service and the rules of the Division of Human Resources and the Idaho Personnel Commission.
POSITION & RESPONSIBILITIES
Under close supervision, the Trial Attorney I defends clients in low-level misdemeanors, mental commitment hearings, and fugitive warrant cases in magistrate court and does related work as required. This level is assigned to attorneys who have little to no previous criminal defense experience.
Example of Duties
- Represent clients in low-level misdemeanor, mental commitment hearings, and fugitive warrant cases in magistrate court, ensuring effective legal defense through all stages of proceedings;
- Prepare and present legal arguments in appeals to the district court, ensuring the legal rights of clients are protected at every level;
- 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;
- 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;
- Stay current on relevant laws, legal precedents, and procedural changes through continuing legal education and training;
- 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 makes 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.
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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 or the ability to obtain Idaho State Bar licensure within 6 months. Individuals hired before ISP licensure must pass the bar on their first attempt and/or obtain ISB licensure within 6 months. Failure to pass the bar will result in termination.
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POSITION & RESPONSIBILITIES
Under direction, the Trial Attorney III defends clients in low-level felony, criminal, and delinquency cases, including burglary and drug possession cases; child protective act cases; and felony specialty court proceedings and does related work as required. Attorneys at this level are expected to exercise a high degree of independent judgment in handling assigned cases.
Example of Duties
- Represent clients in low-level felony, criminal, and delinquency cases, including burglary and drug possession cases; child protective act cases; and felony specialty court proceedings;
- 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;
- Provide guidance and mentorship to less experienced attorneys as needed;
- 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.
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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.
Preferred Qualifications
1-2 years of experience as a practicing attorney or a 1–2-year judicial clerkship.
BENEFITS
The State of Idaho offers a comprehensive total compensation package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance effective the first day of the month following your hire date
- Generous paid time off , including vacation and sick leave that begin accruing on your first day of employment and may be used as soon as accrued
- 11 paid holidays each year
- Paid parental leave
- One of the nation's best public retirement systems (PERSI) , providing a lifetime retirement benefit once vested
- Optional retirement savings plans , including two supplemental retirement plans with pre-tax and Roth options, plus a deferred compensation plan
- Life insurance coverage for employees, spouses, and eligible dependents
- Short- and long-term disability insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for eligible healthcare and dependent care expenses
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support your well-being
- Training and professional development opportunities to help you grow your career
- Additional employee discounts and wellness perks are available through the State's medical plan
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility
LOCATION
Twin Falls, 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 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 Mariette Barcinas at [email protected]
EEO/ADA/VETERAN
The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibiting discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibiting 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 [email protected].
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 until the position is filled.
