State of Idaho Opportunity
Deputy State Appellate Public Defende r
Idaho State Appellate Public Defender (SAPD)
Boise, Idaho
Full-time (40 hours)
$90,000 - $110,000 annually D.O.E.
The State Appellate Public Defender (SAPD) is a law office which provides appellate and post-conviction representation to indigent defendants pursuant to Idaho Code § 19-5905.
The SAPD's Appellate Unit (AU) represents indigent clients in non-death penalty cases, including juvenile, misdemeanor, and felony cases, and post-conviction proceedings arising out of those cases. The AU's role is limited to appeals before the Idaho Court of Appeals and/or the Idaho Supreme Court. The Capital Litigation Unit (CLU) represents indigent clients convicted of murder and sentenced to death. The CLU represents clients in post-conviction proceedings in the trial courts, and in appeals before the Idaho Supreme Court.
The SAPD offers deeply meaningful work. Our attorneys, who are among the most experienced and highly skilled appellate attorneys in Idaho, work tirelessly to preserve the Constitutional protections that Americans have traditionally held so dear. At the same time, they have the distinct pleasure of representing some of Idaho's most vulnerable, underserved, and disadvantaged citizens. We recognize and celebrate the humanity of each client by treating them with dignity and respect while giving them a voice in a legal system that can otherwise make them feel unheard and powerless. Many clients have told us that we were the first people in their lives to listen to them, tell their stories, and fight for them. We are proud to do so.
The SAPD could not do any of this without its talented and dedicated attorneys and staff. The SAPD supports its amazing employees by fostering a sense of purpose, encouraging professional growth, and offering a collegial and supportive work environment.
SCOPE OF WORK
A Deputy State Appellate Public Defender in the SAPD's Appellate Unit represents indigent clients in juvenile, misdemeanor, felony, and post-conviction appeals before the Idaho Court of Appeals and the Idaho Supreme Court.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Communicating effectively with, and competently advising, clients whose cases are pending on appeal;
Carefully reviewing trial court records and fully evaluating potential issues for appeal;
Conducting thorough legal research;
Drafting clear, concise appellate motions and briefs;
Delivering persuasive oral arguments before the Idaho Court of Appeals and the Idaho Supreme Court; and
Traveling to the Idaho Supreme Court, correctional institutions, and other locations within the State of Idaho to attend court hearings and oral arguments, and visit incarcerated clients.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Excellent research, writing, proofreading, and oral advocacy skills are essential, as is the ability to maintain client confidentiality. A successful candidate will be detail-oriented, exercise sound professional judgment, manage a heavy caseload and produce a high volume of quality work, and communicate effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds.
WHY JOIN THE SAPD?
In addition to rewarding and meaningful work, the SAPD offers its employees excellent benefits, including generous leave policies and sufficient flexibility for employees to enjoy a healthy work-life balance. Below are some of the benefits:
Nation's leading public employee pension plan - PERSI
Excellent low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance
Eleven paid holidays
Paid vacation leave
Paid sick leave
Paid parental leave
Flexible work schedules and a partial telework opportunity
401(k) and deferred compensation plan
Life/Disability/Supplemental life insurance
Employee assistance program
Flexible spending accounts
Wellness programs
Paid annual renewal fees for Idaho State Bar
The State of Idaho offers a robust compensation package. For a summary of benefits click here (https://dhr.idaho.gov/information-for-state-employees/) .
The State Appellate Public Defender is also a qualifying employer for the purposes of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
WHY BOISE, IDAHO?
Boise, Idaho consistently ranks high in quality of life and offers a balance of urban amenities and outdoor activities. The city has a vibrant culture with music festivals and a growing food scene. Recreational opportunities such as fly-fishing, biking, skiing, kayaking, and hiking are all within close proximity. The Boise Greenbelt, a 25-mile-long path along the Boise River, is a favorite for walking, running, and biking. Known for its friendly and welcoming community, Boise is a great place to start a new chapter in life.
ARE YOU READY TO APPLY?
If you are ready to join the team, please submit: 1) a cover letter, 2) a resume, 3) two letters of recommendation, and 4) two writing samples. Applicants whose law school graduation is within three years of the application must also submit copies of their law school transcripts (unofficial transcripts will be accepted). Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Application materials should be submitted through the Careers with the State of Idaho website, https://statecareers.idaho.gov/ , and not directly to the agency.
To accept this position, you must:
Possess a J.D. from an accredited law school.
Be admitted, or seeking admission, to the Idaho State Bar.
Be able to travel within and outside the State of Idaho.
For inquiries regarding this position, please contact Elizabeth Todd, Office Administrator, at (208) 334-2712 or elizabeth.todd@sapd.idaho.gov .
EEO/ADA/Veteran:
The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. Discrimination based on veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws, is prohibited.
The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov .
Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.
