Deputy Public Defender

ABOUT THE PUBLIC DEFENDER’S OFFICE

The Public Defender’s Office has a supportive, team-oriented environment with a strong commitment to provide quality legal defense services and achieve just results for clients. The Office has a compliment of 92 staff, with a team of 45 Attorneys. The main office is located in the city of Visalia, within the County Courthouse. A satellite office is housed at the Juvenile Detention Facility complex near Visalia and is close to the Juvenile Court also located at that facility and a second satellite office located in Porterville approximately four miles from the Tulare County Superior Courthouse in Porterville.

Applicants may be granted advanced step appointments based upon experience. The County provides a benefit package including health insurance, vacation, sick benefits, 1937 Act Retirement plan, life insurance and reimbursement for California Bar Dues. A Benefit allowance may be applied toward health insurance premiums.

This recruitment will be used to fill immediate openings and may be used for future vacancies. Under direction, performs professional legal work in the defense of indigent clients. Responsibilities include preparing and assisting in criminal defense cases; preparing pleadings, briefs, points and authorities; conducting legal research; examining and evaluating evidence; and representing clients in the Superior Courts.

Active membership in the State Bar of California is required. Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California driver’s license is required. Newly hired Attorneys will serve At-Will and hold noncompetitive status. To be considered above the Level I, applicants must have courtroom experience and related work experience in defending felony cases.

• Deputy Public Defender:
  Entry level. No experience required.

Applicants must submit a County application including a supplemental application form. You may apply online at:

Candidates selected will be required to pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening. Additionally, a background investigation may also be conducted, which may include a re-investigation every 10 years for some positions. An Employment Eligibility Verification using E-Verify may be required on the first day of employment for some positions. Some job classes may also require a physical exam.

This may be a qualifying position for student loan forgiveness through the College Cost Reduction and Access Act (CCRAA). Only student loan payments made after October 1, 2007 and in a qualified repayment plan are eligible. For more information you are encouraged to speak with your student loan servicer or visit: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).-cancellation

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