Back to Jobs search

PUBLIC DEFENDER I

State of Arkansas • Jonesboro, AR • 1h ago

PUBLIC DEFENDER I

Date: Jun 4, 2026

Req ID: 57777

Location:

Jonesboro, AR, US, 72401

Category: AR PUBLIC DEFENDER COMMISSION

Anticipated Starting Salary: $35,514

Position Number: 22095061 (PART-TIME) PUBLIC DEFENDER I

County: Craighead; Clay; Greene; Poinsett

Posting End Date: 6/11/2026

Anticipated Starting Salary: $35,514

The Arkansas Public Defender Commission is seeking an experienced attorney to fill a half-time public defender position in the Second Judicial District , based in Jonesboro, AR.

Position Highlights:

The half-time (part-time) position allows the successful applicant to maintain a private law practice.

Positions are eligible for State of Arkansas benefits, including health insurance and retirement

*ALL APPLICANTS MUST BE ABLE TO PASS A PRE-EMPLOYMENT BACKGROUND CHECK

Position Information

Job Series:Public Defenders

Classification:Public Defender I - Career Path

Class Code:LPD03P

Pay Grade:SPC03

Salary Range:$71,027 - $105,120

Job Summary

The Public Defender I is responsible for providing legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private counsel, ensuring that all clients receive fair representation in accordance with state and federal laws. The ideal candidate must possess a valid law license in Arkansas and be prepared to represent clients in criminal defense matters, including pre-trial motions, trials, and post-conviction matters.

Primary Responsibilities

Meet or exceed the requirements for position of Public Defender I Represent indigent clients in criminal cases at all stages of the legal process, including pre-trial motions, trial preparation, trials, plea negotiations, and post-conviction proceedings as required by law. Develop legal abilities for placement in criminal circuit court, adult division, prior to or upon conclusion of probationary period of nine (9) months. Provide legal advice and counsel to clients regarding their rights, case developments, and available options. Develop case strategies, including preparing and filing legal documents, conducting legal research, and evaluating evidence to ensure the best possible defense for clients. Handle a full caseload of criminal cases, including misdemeanor and felony cases, with a focus on both adult and juvenile defendants as required. Maintain constant communication with clients to keep them informed of case status and legal options, providing clear explanations in an understandable manner. Prepare annual reports and other documentation for the Board's review, summarizing accomplishments, challenges, and the status of key initiatives. Conduct thorough investigations into all aspects of each case, including interviewing clients, witnesses, and experts. Review police reports, evidence, and other relevant documentation to assess the strength of the case and identify defense strategies. Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents to support clients' defense. Perform legal research to stay up-to-date with criminal law, case precedents, and legal strategies to ensure effective defense in court. Work closely with other attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff within the Public Defender's Office to provide the best possible defense for clients. Represent clients in court hearings, including arraignments, pre-trial conferences, hearings, and trials. Negotiate plea agreements with opposing counsel, ensuring clients' best interests are considered in the negotiation process. Report case dispositions on or before the last day of every month for the preceding thirty (30) days to office staff for submission to the Commission Obtain a minimum of six (6) hours legal education annually in the area of criminal law.

Knowledge and Skills

In-depth understanding of Arkansas criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence, as well as federal criminal law as applicable. Strong legal research skills, with the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop effective defense strategies. Ability to quickly assess case details, identify key issues, and formulate strong arguments for the defense. Strong public speaking skills, including the ability to argue motions, present cases to judges and juries, and deliver persuasive closing arguments. Comfortable managing courtroom dynamics and effectively engaging with witnesses, experts, and opposing counsel.

Minimum Qualifications

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas, with a valid Arkansas bar membership.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee's demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas, with a valid Arkansas bar membership. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Nearest Major Market:Jonesboro

Similar Jobs

Academic Counselor

Arkansas State University • Jonesboro, AR • 1w ago

Legal & Paralegal

Job Details Please note: all position postings close at 12:00 A.M. CST on the position closing date Academic Counselor Working Title Academic Advisor Position # A00896 Department A-State Online Operations Apply Now ( htt...

1w ago

Go to Apply

Warehouse Coordinator

Option Care Health • Jonesboro, AR • 1d ago

Manufacturing & Warehouse

Extraordinary Careers. Endless Possibilities. With the nation's largest home infusion provider, there is no limit to the growth of your career. Option Care Health, Inc. is the largest independent home and alternate site...

1d ago

Go to Apply

CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT

State of Arkansas • Jonesboro, AR • 2d ago

Hospital & Medical

CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT Date: Jun 2, 2026 Req ID: 57676 Location: Jonesboro, AR, US, 72404 Category: AR DEPT OF HUMAN SERVICES Anticipated Starting Salary: $39,170.98 Position Number: 44071004 County: Craighead The D...

2d ago

Go to Apply

RESIDENTIAL CARE SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

State of Arkansas • Jonesboro, AR • 2d ago

RESIDENTIAL CARE SUPERVISOR/EXPERT Date: Jun 2, 2026 Req ID: 57677 Location: Jonesboro, AR, US, 72404 Category: AR DEPT OF HUMAN SERVICES Anticipated Starting Salary: $43,088.03 Position Number: 44071009 County: Craighea...

2d ago

Go to Apply

Consumer Banking Relationship Specialist (Relationship Banker)

Bank OZK • Jonesboro, AR • 3d ago

Finance, Accounting & Banking

Why Bank OZK Founded on a legacy of more than 120 years in banking, Bank OZK is much more than just a company. We're nationally recognized as an industry leader in financial services. That means we combine exceptional se...

3d ago

Go to Apply

BANK EXAMINER SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

State of Arkansas • Jonesboro, AR • 3d ago

Finance, Accounting & Banking

BANK EXAMINER SUPERVISOR/EXPERT Date: Jun 1, 2026 Req ID: 57642 Location: Jonesboro, AR, US, 72401 Category: STATE BANK DEPARTMENT Anticipated Starting Salary: 103,991 Position Number: 22088718 County: Craighead Posting...

3d ago

Go to Apply

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

State of Arkansas • Harrisburg, AR • 3d ago

Retail & Hospitality

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN Date: Jun 1, 2026 Req ID: 57557 Location: Harrisburg, AR, US, 72432 Category: DEPT OF PARKS AND TOURISM Anticipated Starting Salary: 39170.98 Position Number: 22078268 Location: Lake Poinsett State...

3d ago

Go to Apply

Academic Advisor

Arkansas State University • Jonesboro, AR • 3d ago

Job Details Please note: all position postings close at 12:00 A.M. CST on the position closing date Academic Advisor Working Title Athletic Academic Coordinator Position # P00002 Department Academic Support Center for At...

3d ago

Go to Apply

Academic Advisor

Arkansas State University • Jonesboro, AR • 3d ago

Job Details Please note: all position postings close at 12:00 A.M. CST on the position closing date Academic Advisor Working Title Academic Coordinator Position # P00085 Department Academic Support Center for Athletes Ap...

3d ago

Go to Apply

Acute Care Surgeon

St. Bernard's Hospital, Inc. d/b/a/ St. Bernards M • Jonesboro, AR • 4d ago

Hospital & Medical

This job was posted by https://www.arjoblink.arkansas.gov : For more information, please see: https://www.arjoblink.arkansas.gov/jobs/4759303 JOB TITLE: Acute Care Surgeon LOCATIONS: (1) 225 E. Washington Ave., Jonesboro...

4d ago

Go to Apply

Subscribe to get new jobs sent directly to you
(no charge, cancel anytime)