Assistant Public Defender - Ionia County

IONIA COUNTY ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER, Full-time

Overview
Ionia County is seeking a dedicated and skilled Public Defender to join our legal team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing quality legal representation to individuals who cannot afford private counsel. This role requires a strong understanding of criminal law, criminal procedure, and evidence. The Public Defender will advocate for clients in court, negotiate plea agreements, handle all hearings and trials as scheduled, and ensure that their rights are protected throughout the legal process.

If you are an enthusiastic attorney looking to make a difference in the lives of others through dedicated public service, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding opportunity as a Public Defender.

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Chief Public Defender, the Assistant Public Defender is responsible for assisting in the implementation, oversight, and direction of the Public Defender's Office. They are also responsible for ensuring Ionia County meets all constitutional and legislative requirements as they pertain to indigent adult criminal offenders charged with felonies and misdemeanors.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the state bar and in good standing.
• Experience or coursework in criminal law, evidence, or criminal procedure is preferred.
• Proficiency in legal research tools, such as Westlaw.
• Strong negotiation skills with the ability to advocate effectively for clients.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A commitment to public service and a passion for defending the rights of individuals.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.
• A valid vehicle operator’s license.
• Regular, reliable, and predictable attendance.
• Comfortable with the daily use of technology.
• Ability to perform without additional clerical support, if necessary.

Pay Range

• The annual wage range for an attorney licensed for less than four years: $76,694 - $93,912.
• The annual wage range for an attorney licensed for more than four years: $84,981 - $103,506.

Benefits:

Ionia County offers a rich benefit package that includes the following:

• Medical insurance – 5% employee premium co-pay per pay period, and access to an onsite HealthBar Nurse practitioner
• Health Savings Account - employer contribution of $600/single coverage; $1200/2-person or family coverage
• Group Life Insurance, $30,000
• Group Short Term Disability Insurance
• Group Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(a) and 457 Deferred Compensation plans
• Voluntary dental, vision, life insurance, critical illness, accident, and hospital plans
• Vacation days
• Personal days
• Holiday pay

To be considered for this position, please submit a cover letter and resume to hr@ioniacounty.org or via mail to:

Ionia County Human Resources Department

101 West Main, Ionia, MI 48846

Ionia, MI 48846

This position will be posted until filled.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $76,694.00 - $103,506.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $76,694 - $93,912