Attorney

Join the Utah County Public Defender Association as a Public Defender Attorney

The Utah County Public Defender Association is seeking to fill attorney positions. We are a dedicated team of legal professionals committed to ensuring justice and fair representation for individuals who cannot afford private legal counsel. Our office serves the community by providing high-quality defense services in criminal and civil cases, striving to uphold the constitutional rights of our clients. As a Public Defender Attorney, you will advocate for clients facing criminal charges who qualify for public defense services. You will handle a diverse caseload ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies, ensuring that each client receives diligent representation throughout all stages of their legal proceedings.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research and develop case strategies.
• Represent clients in court hearings, trials, and other related proceedings.
• Negotiate plea agreements and settlements.
• Collaborate with colleagues, investigators, experts, and support staff to fulfill duties.
• Counsel and guide clients with professionalism and empathy.
• Ensure compliance with ethical and legal standards throughout all cases.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the Utah State Bar.
• Experience in criminal defense litigation is preferred but not required for entry-level candidates.
• Strong advocacy, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Effectively work with clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to handle adversarial proceedings in a professional and civil manner
• Commitment to justice, fairness, and high-quality legal representation.

Work Environment and Caseload

The position is limited to practice in the Utah County Fourth District Court. Employees are prohibited from practicing outside the scope of their public defender duties. Attorneys will manage a significant caseload, including felony and misdemeanor cases, through all stages of district court proceedings such as pretrial hearings, trials, sentencing, and probation violation hearings.

Compensation and Benefits

• Starting salary: $86,000 annually (commensurate with experience).
• Additional compensation for attorneys fluent in Spanish.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including:
• Health insurance.
• Retirement plans.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Support for professional development and continuing legal education (CLE).
• All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
• While proficiency in Spanish is not required, qualified spanish-speaking attorneys will be eligible for additional compensation.

Application Process

To apply, please submit the following:

• A brief cover letter detailing your interest and qualifications;
• Resume; and
• Professional references.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a team that makes a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals in need. Your advocacy and dedication will contribute to achieving justice for our clients and strengthening our community.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $86,652.00 - $95,097.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person

Salary : $86,652 - $95,097