Chief Public Defender - Chesapeake, VA

Virginia Defenders – Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) is seeking an experienced, dynamic criminal defense attorney to serve as the Chief Public Defender for the Chesapeake Public Defender Office. The VIDC is dedicated to protecting and defending the rights and dignity of clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. The Public Defender is an at-will position reporting to the Virginia Indigent Defense Commission’s Executive Director and serving at the pleasure of the Commission. A successful candidate is subject to a fingerprint based criminal background check.

The IDC is committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our workforce and staff. We encourage and welcome qualified applicants of all identities, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.

Duties:
The Public Defender is responsible for handling a personal caseload and for the overall supervision of the office. Duties include oversight of defense team work by providing direction and guidance for case preparation, trial strategies, client contacts and communications, plea negotiation, appellate practice, and sentencing advocacy. Additional duties include ensuring that attorneys and staff receive appropriate training and continuing education, ensuring all attorneys receive and maintain certification for court appointment and fully comply with the Standards of Practice for Indigent Defense Counsel, submitting input and carefully managing the office budget, and preparing and ensuring all required administrative reports and documentation are timely submitted.