Deputy Public Defender - Aberdeen, SD

Job Description Deputy Public Defender – Aberdeen, SDEarn $80,800–$101,000 Per YearBrown County Public Defender's Office | Aberdeen, South DakotaThe Brown County Public Defender's Office is seeking a Deputy Public Defender to help build and shape our newly established office.Whether you're a newly licensed attorney, an experienced litigator, or somewhere in between, we encourage you to apply. We are committed to providing exceptional training, mentorship, and professional development while fostering a supportive team environment focused on client advocacy and work-life balance.This position offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable courtroom experience, develop trial skills, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals who need legal representation.Compensation & BenefitsSalary$80,800–$101,000 per year, depending on qualifications and experienceSalary negotiable for highly qualified candidatesBenefitsEmployer-paid employee health insuranceEmployer-paid dental insuranceEmployer-paid life insuranceOptional dependent and supplemental insurance plansSouth Dakota Retirement System participation6% employer retirement match for eligible employeesGenerous paid time off packageExtended sick leave benefits13 paid holidays annuallyOngoing training and professional development opportunitiesWhy Join Brown County?This is more than a legal position—it's an opportunity to help establish a new public defender office and influence its future.We promote a collaborative, team-focused culture where attorneys are encouraged to grow professionally while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Through manageable caseloads, modern technology, and strong internal support, our goal is to help attorneys succeed both inside and outside the courtroom.Even if you have little or no criminal law experience, we provide comprehensive training and mentorship to help you develop the skills needed to thrive in public defense.Training opportunities include:Courtroom procedures and professional etiquetteMotion practice and legal writingClient communication and case managementPlea negotiations and advocacyJury trial preparation and litigationAppellate practiceCriminal, juvenile, abuse and neglect, and mental health proceedingsPosition SummaryThe Deputy Public Defender provides legal representation to individuals who qualify for court-appointed counsel in:Felony criminal casesMisdemeanor criminal casesJuvenile delinquency mattersAbuse and neglect proceedingsMental health commitment proceedingsInvoluntary alcohol commitment proceedingsAttorneys will represent clients throughout all phases of litigation, including initial appearances, arraignments, motion hearings, negotiations, trials, and appeals when appropriate.Depending on qualifications and experience, candidates may be considered for a Senior Deputy Public Defender designation.ResponsibilitiesProvide zealous and effective legal representation to clientsConduct legal research and draft motions, briefs, and other pleadingsRepresent clients during hearings, trials, and other court proceedingsNegotiate with prosecutors, opposing counsel, and stakeholdersMaintain regular communication with clients and interested partiesManage assigned caseloads efficiently and professionallyCollaborate with the Chief Public Defender and office staffAssist with office development and continuous improvement initiativesQualificationsRequiredJuris Doctor (JD) or equivalent law degreeLicensed to practice law in South Dakota or eligible for admissionStrong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to manage multiple cases and deadlinesCommitment to client advocacy and public servicePreferredExperience in criminal law, litigation, or courtroom advocacyTrial experiencePublic defense, prosecution, or judicial clerkship experienceKnowledge, Skills & AbilitiesSuccessful candidates will demonstrate:Knowledge of local, state, and federal lawStrong legal research and analytical abilitiesEffective courtroom advocacy skillsAbility to develop persuasive legal argumentsSound judgment and problem-solving capabilitiesStrong interpersonal and communication skillsProficiency with legal technology and case management systemsWork EnvironmentOffice and courtroom settingCollaborative team atmosphereOpportunity for mentorship and professional growthMeaningful work serving the community and protecting constitutional rightsApply TodayIf you're looking for a rewarding legal career with excellent benefits, courtroom experience, professional development, and the opportunity to help build a new public defender office from the ground up, we'd love to hear from you.Submit your application today and join the Brown County Public Defender's Office team in Aberdeen, South Dakota.#hc246884