The Delaware Office of Defense Services (ODS) is committed to ensuring that every person—regardless of income, background, or circumstance—is treated fairly and respectfully in the justice system. As Delaware’s public defender agency, ODS protects constitutional rights, supports individuals and families during difficult moments, and works to strengthen trust and fairness across our communities.
Our mission is zealous advocacy for the people. This simple but powerful commitment guides every aspect of our work and reflects our belief that justice must be accessible, humane, and rooted in dignity for all Delawareans. Our work is carried out by a team of dedicated attorneys and professionals across Central Administration, the Public Defender’s Office, and Office of Conflicts Counsel. More than 200 staff members serve Delawareans with compassion, integrity, and a deep belief that dignity, equity, and justice must be accessible to all.
Assistant Public Defenders—together with investigators, forensic social specialists, mitigation specialists, client advocates, legal assistants, and administrative staff—stand beside adults and youth navigating criminal and delinquency charges. They also represent parents in abuse and neglect proceeding in the Family Court, helping protect the fundamental rights of families and ensuring parents have a meaningful voice when facing life-altering decisions. Across all case types, our teams connect clients with needed services, challenge systemic barriers that deepen inequity, and advocate for outcomes that promote healing, stability, and stronger communities. Through this work, ODS strives to ensure that justice in Delaware is not just a principle, but a lived experience for every person we serve.
The Office of Defense Services’ Public Defender’s Office seeks a motivated and enthusiastic attorney to join our Kent County office in a full-time capacity defending clients in Kent County. To qualify, the attorney must be admitted, or pending admission, to the Delaware Bar. Job duties will primarily include a felony trial caseload in the Superior Court and will also encompass defending clients at violation of probation hearings, specialty court proceedings, and other court calendars as needed.
Applicants with experience in criminal law are preferred. Applicants without experience in criminal law but with a strong interest in the field and litigation experience are also encouraged to apply. The salary is commensurate with experience.
Pay Grade A12 - APD I, Annual Salary $90,000.00
Pay Grade A14 - APD II, Annual Salary $94,570.00/min - $98,854.00/max
Pay Grade A16 - APD III, Annual Salary $103,797.00/min - $108,147.00/max
Pay Grade A18 - APD IV, Annual Salary $113,554.00/min - $118,832.00/max
Pay Grade A120 - APD V, Annual Salary $125,166.00/min - $129,848.00/max
The salary of $90,000.00 is for the Assistant Public Defender I applies to candidates who hold an active bar admission to the state of Delaware.
- Please be sure to upload a recent copy of your resume, as you complete the application process for this posting.
- This position is exempt from the State of Delaware Merit System.
- This posting may close before 5/15/2026 upon filling the vacant position.
The Office of Defense Services is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, color, disability, ethnicity, family or marital status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, physical and mental ability, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, or veteran status.
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The State of Delaware participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm you are authorized to work in the U.S.
- Criminal background check: A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire.
- Direct deposit of paychecks is required.
To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/
Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.
The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
