Back to Jobs search

PUBLIC DEFENDER I

State of Arkansas • Stuttgart, AR • 2h ago

PUBLIC DEFENDER I

Date: Aug 27, 2026

Req ID: 59490

Location:

Stuttgart, AR, US, 72160

Category: AR PUBLIC DEFENDER COMMISSION

Anticipated Starting Salary: $35,514

Position Number: 22095061 PART-TIME POSITION

County: Arkansas

Posting End Date: September 2, 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 11 Judicial District East, based in Stuttgart, 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:Little Rock

Similar Jobs

Industrial Engineer II

Lennox Industries Inc. • Stuttgart, AR • 5d ago

Legal & Paralegal

This job was posted by https://www.arjoblink.arkansas.gov : For more information, please see: https://www.arjoblink.arkansas.gov/jobs/4821412 Industrial Engineer II needed by Lennox Industries Inc. in Stuttgart AR. DUTIE...

5d ago

Go to Apply

CORRECTIONS OFFICER

State of Arkansas • Tucker, AR • 2d ago

Management & Administrative

CORRECTIONS OFFICER Date: Aug 25, 2026 Req ID: 59401 Location: Tucker - Tucker Unit, AR, US, 72168 Category: DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION Anticipated Starting Salary: $50,845.00 Position Number: 22085444 County: Jefferson Po...

2d ago

Go to Apply

CORRECTIONS OFFICER

State of Arkansas • Tucker, AR • 2d ago

Management & Administrative

CORRECTIONS OFFICER Date: Aug 25, 2026 Req ID: 59419 Location: Tucker - Larry B. Norris Unit, AR, US, 72168 Category: DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION Anticipated Starting Salary: $50,845.00 Position Number: 22086020 County: Jef...

2d ago

Go to Apply

Director of Nursing

Wellpath • Tucker, AR • 1w ago

Hospital & Medical

You Matter Make a difference every day in the lives of the underserved Join a mission driven organization with a people first culture Excellent career growth opportunities Join us and find a career that supports: Caring...

1w ago

Go to Apply

Assistant Store Manager

Family Dollar • De Witt, AR • 1w ago

Retail & Hospitality

We're seeking an Assistant Store Manager to join our team to help with store operations, customer service and team development. Duties include, but are not limited to, the following: Assist with store functions and day-t...

1w ago

Go to Apply

assistant manager temp

Family Dollar • De Witt, AR • 1w ago

Retail & Hospitality

We're seeking a Customer Service Associate to join our team and deliver a great shopping experience for every customer. Duties include, but are not limited to, the following: Assist customers with questions and recommend...

1w ago

Go to Apply

CORRECTIONS MAJOR

State of Arkansas • Tucker, AR • 1w ago

CORRECTIONS MAJOR Date: Aug 14, 2026 Req ID: 59217 Location: Tucker, AR, US, 72168 Category: DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION Anticipated Starting Salary: $81,887.10 Position Number: 22087197 County: Jefferson Posting End Date:...

1w ago

Go to Apply

REVENUE COORDINATOR

State of Arkansas • De Witt, AR • 2w ago

Finance, Accounting & Banking

REVENUE COORDINATOR Date: Aug 12, 2026 Req ID: 59145 Location: DeWitt, AR, US, 72042 Category: DFA - REVENUE SERVICES DIV Anticipated Starting Salary: $47,397 Position Number: 22108955 County: Arkansas Posting End Date:...

2w ago

Go to Apply

REVENUE COORDINATOR

State of Arkansas • Clarendon, AR • 2w ago

Finance, Accounting & Banking

REVENUE COORDINATOR Date: Aug 12, 2026 Req ID: 59146 Location: Clarendon, AR, US, 72029 Category: DFA - REVENUE SERVICES DIV Anticipated Starting Salary: $47,397 Position Number: 22108043 County: Monroe Posting End Date:...

2w ago

Go to Apply

Customer Service Delivery Driver

Sherwin-Williams • Stuttgart, AR • 3w ago

Retail & Hospitality

This position works closely with wholesale and retail customers to determine their needs, answer their questions about Sherwin-Williams products, and recommend the right solutions. In this position, you will also be resp...

3w ago

Go to Apply

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