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State of Wyoming

Public Defender-Practicing Attorney 2025-00762

JOB_REQUIREMENTS

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Employment Type

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Company Location

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Salary

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Salary

$60,652.68 - $137,362.92 Annually

Location

Gillette, WY

Job Type

Permanent Full-time

Job Number

2025-00762

Department

Public Defender

Division

Public Defender

Opening Date

03/19/2025

Closing Date

Continuous

FLSA

Exempt

Job Classification

ATTY99

Description and Functions

Open Until Filled

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Are you passionate about protecting constitutional rights and advocating for those who need it most? The Wyoming State Public Defender’s Office in Gillette has multiple openings for attorneys dedicated to ensuring high-quality legal representation for indigent clients. Our attorneys fight for justice, develop their trial skills, and work alongside experienced mentors in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Why Choose a Career with the Wyoming Public Defender’s Office?

Unmatched Courtroom Experience: Unlike larger jurisdictions where new attorneys wait years for serious cases, here you will quickly gain experience in assault, homicide, and felony cases early in your career.
Mission-Driven Work: Make a real impact by providing legal defense to those who cannot afford private representation.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Our positions qualify for PSLF, helping you manage student debt while pursuing meaningful work.
Mentorship & Professional Growth: Work alongside experienced defenders who are committed to mentoring and supporting new attorneys.
Competitive Benefits & Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a stable salary, generous paid time off, state retirement benefits, and access to Wyoming’s incredible outdoor recreation.

Live and Work in Gillette, Wyoming

Located in Campbell County, Gillette offers a unique combination of small-town charm and world-class outdoor recreation. Known as the "Energy Capital of the Nation," Gillette is also a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hunting, fishing, hiking, and access to the Big Horn Mountains. Whether you enjoy big game hunting, fly fishing in pristine waters, or exploring rugged trails, Gillette provides an exceptional quality of life with affordable living and a welcoming community.

Human Resource Contact: Samantha Drew/307-777-7667 / samantha.drew2@wyo.gov

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function which may be performed at the job level.

Client Representation: Defend clients at all stages of criminal proceedings, including arraignments, pre-trial hearings, trials, sentencing, and appeals.
Case Preparation: Conduct legal research, draft motions, and develop defense strategies tailored to each case.
Negotiation & Advocacy: Engage in plea negotiations with prosecutors, ensuring outcomes align with clients’ best interests.
Investigation: Work with investigators, expert witnesses, and other resources to gather evidence and build a strong defense.
Caseload Management: Handle a diverse caseload, ensuring timely case progression and compliance with court deadlines.
Mentorship & Development: Provide guidance to junior attorneys or legal interns as needed, fostering professional growth within the office.
Continuing Education: Stay current on changes in criminal law and public defense best practices through ongoing legal education and professional development.

Qualifications

PREFERENCES/**AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:

Preference may be given to applicants who are active members of the Wyoming State Bar and licensed to practice as an attorney in this State.

**You must be licensed to practice law in Wyoming.

KNOWLEDGE:

Strong case management and prioritization skills.
In-depth knowledge of trial procedures, rules of evidence, and criminal statutes.
Excellent legal research and writing abilities.
Ability to think quickly, adapt to courtroom challenges, and advocate effectively for clients.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

Juris Doctorate

Experience:

0-2 years of relevant legal experience.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

Requires membership in the State Bar as an Attorney qualified to practice law in this state.

Necessary Special Requirements

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Travel required - as necessary by the caseload.

NOTES:

FLSA: Exempt - At Will Position

Supplemental Information

URL: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wyoming/default.cfm

The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.

Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.

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