Trial Attorney - Ada

Trial Attorney 1 – Ada County

State of Idaho – Full‑time (40 hours) – $90,000 annually.

The State Public Defender (SPD) is a newly created state agency which provides trial representation to indigent criminal defendants pursuant to Idaho Code §19‑6005, §19‑6009 (effective 10/1/24). The SPD is responsible for all indigent defense cases throughout the State of Idaho, including both juveniles and adults. The SPD values its employees and offers meaningful work that has a direct impact on citizens across the state.

Additionally, the SPD is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

Under close supervision, the attorney defends clients in low‑level misdemeanors, mental commitment hearings, and fugitive warrant cases in magistrate court, and performs related work as required. This level is assigned to attorneys who have little to no previous criminal defense experience.

• Represent clients in low‑level misdemeanors, mental commitment hearings and fugitive warrant cases in magistrate court, ensuring effective legal defense through all stages of proceedings.
• Prepare and present legal arguments in appeals to the district court, ensuring the legal rights of clients are protected at every level.
• Develop case strategies, investigate facts, and review evidence to determine the best course of legal action.
• Draft and file necessary motions, briefs, and other legal documents, ensuring compliance with legal procedures and deadlines.
• Negotiate with prosecutors to secure favorable plea agreements or case dismissals when appropriate.
• Appear in court to argue motions, represent clients at hearings, and conduct bench or jury trials.
• Collaborate with investigators, social workers, and expert witnesses to support the defense and address client needs holistically.
• Exercise independent judgment in managing caseloads and resolving legal issues with minimal supervision.
• Stay current on relevant laws, legal precedents, and procedural changes through continuing legal education and training.
• Conduct legal research and analyze data and legal documents.
• Apply case law, the Rules of Criminal Procedure, the Rules of Evidence, and Constitutional principles.
• Review and synthesize discovery.
• Interview clients early and frequently and make decisions concerning bail, release from custody, and mental competency to stand trial.
• Determine the need for expert witnesses; locate appropriate experts and schedule them for trial if needed.
• Work in the Case Management System (CMS) to document case work and timekeeping in accordance with SPD policy.
• Practice vertical representation in all cases.
• Follow the American Bar Association (ABA) standards for defending attorneys delivering indigent defense.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law, with Idaho State Bar Association membership in good standing or the ability to obtain Idaho State Bar licensure within 6 months. Individuals hired before ISP licensure must pass the bar on their first attempt and/or obtain ISB licensure within 6 months. Failure to pass the bar will result in termination.

Best Retirement Available in The Nation. The State of Idaho has one of the Nation’s best state retirement systems (PERSI) that offers a lifetime benefit. This position is PERSI Retirement eligible; the duties correspond to General Member—mandatory employee contribution of 7.18%, employer contributes 11.96%.

• Excellent low‑cost medical, dental, and vision insurance – employee coverage for PPO $70.74/month for medical and vision and $12.08/month for dental (full-time).
• Generous vacation and sick leave accrual will begin as soon as you start.
• Paid parental leave.
• Eleven paid holidays per year.
• Multiple retirement savings plans, including optional 401(k) and Deferred Compensation plan.
• Group Life Insurance/Disability Insurance/Supplemental Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Wellness Programs.

Boise, Idaho

Qualified applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, two references, and a writing sample through the Careers…