Staff Attorney I

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11/17/2025 (7:00 PM EST)

25-06773

Staff Attorney I

Salary

$5,356.96 - $6,535.44 Monthly

Employment Type

EXECUTIVE BRANCH | FULL TIME | INELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME PAY | 18A | 37.5 HR/WK

Hiring Agency

Justice & Public Safety Cabinet | Department of Public Advocacy

Location

5 Mill Creek Park
Frankfort, KY 40601 USA

Description

The Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy (DPA) is nationally recognized as a model statewide public defender system with an exceptional training and education program. Our defense teams ensure the criminal justice process is fair, results are just, and individual liberties are protected. We are hiring an entry-level staff attorney to join the appellate branch in our Frankfort office. Kentucky DPA looks for individuals who have demonstrated a desire to help the vulnerable in their communities. The ideal candidate exhibits exceptional planning and organizational skills, is self-directed and also comfortable working with other attorneys and office administrative legal staff. We seek persons who understand it is a privilege to represent our clients and we do so on behalf of the people of Kentucky.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Represents criminal defendants on appeal.
• Handles various stages of routine appellate litigation, with immediate supervision.
• Is able to represent clients in both appellate courts in Kentucky.
• Handles caseload commensurate with experience.
• Thoroughly reviews trial records, develops issues, performs in depth legal research and drafts persuasive appellate pleadings.
• Maintains relationships with clients and trial attorneys
• Prepares for and conducts oral arguments in appellate courts when ordered to do so.
• Maintains knowledge about current state of the law.
• Shares and seeks knowledge through case review and requests and responses to requests for assistance.
• Duties are performed primarily in both office and courtroom settings.

Minimum Requirements

Working Conditions

Duties are performed primarily in both office and courtroom settings. Travel is required.

Probationary Period

This job has an initial and promotional probationary period of 6 months, except as provided in KRS 18A.111.

If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Steven Buck at steven.buck@ky.gov or 502-564-8006.

An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D