Description

The Jefferson County Public Defender’s Office is looking for staff attorneys of all experience levels who want to work in a collaborative and supportive setting.  The office represents defendants in both Family and Criminal Court. The ideal candidate should be admitted to practice (or pending notification of Bar Exam results).  For new attorneys: our office places an emphasis on training and mentorship.  The office is interested in retention not attrition.  

Jefferson County is an underserved rural area that is extremely welcoming to professionals and provides a low cost of living.  Starting salary for entry level positions is very competitive at $98,325-$108,783.  If you have not yet taken the Bar Exam but are scheduled to and until you are admitted a Law Clerk position is open that pays $22-$25 per hour (get paid to study for the Bar!).  For admitted attorneys there is also an additional opportunity to participate in our Centralized Arraignment Court at a rate of $200 per evening above and beyond the base salary.  

The position affords excellent health insurance, dental, mileage reimbursement, full participation in the New York State Retirement system, paid vacation (that you are encouraged to use) and sick time and access to tax free flexible spending accounts for health and daycare expenses.    This is a family friendly office that places a strong emphasis on work/life balance while not sacrificing quality representation. This job is eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.  To date four attorneys in our office have had their entire federal loan balance forgiven. Applicants should submit a resume and cover letter to the Public Defender at jhutchins@co.jefferson.ny.us.  

If you have any questions regarding this posting or just want to talk about the positions available feel free to contact us by phone or email. We would be excited to explain anything in this posting in further detail.

Requirements

Law Clerk - Graduation from an Acredited Law School 

Staff Attorney - New York State Bar Admission