Public Defender

The County of Blair seeks a dedicated Public Defender to practice law in picturesque, historic Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. In this role, you will be responsible for representing individuals charged with crimes who cannot afford to hire legal counsel. You will provide comprehensive legal defense throughout all stages of the criminal process, including arraignment, pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, and jury trials. The position offers an opportunity to gain valuable trial experience while ensuring the protection of clients’ rights and upholding the standards of the legal profession.

You will also be responsible for the supervision of the first assistant public defender, assistant public defender II, assistant public defender and the administrative staff supervisor. You will provide training, assign and coordinate work, evaluate job performances and administers discipline. Represent the department at various boards and committee meeting of the criminal justice system. Attends all department head meetings. Individuals in this role will also meet with judges concerning court procedures and public defenders' performance and perform legal research and interviews witnesses as needed. Prepares department budget and oversees expenses.

Qualified applicants must hold a Juris Doctor degree and be a member of the Pennsylvania Bar in good standing; twelve hours of continuing legal education per year; six hours of capital case training to maintain death penalty certification. Pennsylvania rules of criminal procedures 8-01 certification required. Pennsylvania law license required and free of disciplinary record. Maintenance of death penalty certification required. Ten years' experience with felony trails and criminal legal defense required. Some supervisory experience is preferred. The ability to pass a background check and drug screening are required. The position will be performed on-site in Hollidaysburg, and the employer cannot provide work visa sponsorship.

Competitive benefits package starts first of the month and includes 90% employer-paid PPO healthcare with vision and three-tier prescription components, pension plan, defined contribution plan, short-term disability, term life insurance, a menu of voluntary benefits that includes dental, 14 annual paid holidays and other time-off provisions. Annual salary is $78,003.92 per year. This position is nonunion, excluded, full-time at 35 hours per week. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.