Assistant State Public Defender - 2027 Graduates

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Job location
United States
Organization information
Organization name: 
Wisconsin State Public Defender
State: 
Wisconsin
Job type: 
Legal - Defender
Position Description: 

Are you seeking a rewarding and challenging career? Bring your litigation skills to Wisconsin State Public Defenders office (SPD) and make a difference in the lives of Wisconsin residents! The SPD is currently recruiting to fill Assistant State Public Defenders to work in our offices statewide. This posting is meant for those who will be graduating from law school or taking the Wisconsin Bar Exam in 2027. If you are currently a practicing attorney, please review our other attorney openings to apply for a position with us.

The SPD Trial Division provides legal representation at the circuit court (trial court) level. The types of cases include but are not limited to criminal, civil commitment, protective placement (personal guardianship), revocation of conditional liberty (probation, parole, or extended supervision), sexually violent offender commitment, termination of parental rights, and others as specified by state law for juveniles and adults.

Requirements: 

LETTERS OF QUALIFICATION & RESUME: You must submit both documents in order to be considered. It is important that you clearly explain and elaborate on your experience and/or training in your letter of qualifications and/or resume.

An ASPD must possess a strong sense of commitment and dedication to indigent defense. Fluency in a foreign language is a plus.

A qualified candidate will graduate from an accredited law school or taking the Wisconsin Bar Exam in 2027. Minimally qualified applicants will also have education and/or training in the following:
- Providing legal representation (e.g., conducting litigation or hearings, negotiating, etc.)
- Preparing and working with legal documents (e.g., preparing and reading legal pleadings, motions, briefs, etc.)
- Time management skills and the ability to meet hard deadlines for caseload
- Ability to interact professionally with diverse groups (e.g., office staff, clients, opposing counsel, courts, etc.)

In addition, well-qualified applicants will have experience in the following:
- Representing criminal cases (e.g., conducting litigation or hearings, negotiating, etc.)
- Preparing and working with legal documents (e.g., preparing and reading legal pleadings, motions, briefs, etc.)
- Reviewing discovery

To apply: 

Submit an application on Wisc.Jobs follow this link: https://www.wispd.gov/redirecting-to-job/?utm_source=NLADA&utm_medium=jo...

Notes: 
Equal Opportunity Employer
Salary range: 
$38.59 - $58.29/hr
Submission deadline: 
Thursday, December 31, 2026