Public Defender - Open until filled

Position Summary

Represents eligible Native American or other defendants as authorized by applicable Tribal or federal law in criminal proceedings prosecuted in the Southern Ute Tribal Court. Responsibilities include representing respondents in involuntary commitment proceedings, representing juveniles in delinquency proceedings, truancy proceedings, and serving as guardian ad litem in dependency and neglect proceedings brought in the Southern Ute Tribal Court.

This position is a grade E19; pay is $121,866.00/annually.

Education And Experience

• Must have a law degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school.
• Must be licensed to practice law in the State of Colorado and be in good standing with the Colorado Supreme Court or eligible to waive into admission in that State within a year of hiring.
• Must be admitted or eligible for admission to practice before the Southern Ute Tribal Court and possess and maintain necessary licensing and eligibility to practice.
• Must have 2 years of criminal law experience with robust trial experience.
• Must have general knowledge of Tribal jurisdiction and Indian Law.
• Must be familiar with or have the ability to quickly become familiar with the Tribe’s Criminal Procedure Code and other relevant Tribal Codes, the Federal Rules of Evidence, and applicable federal laws governing jurisdiction on the Reservation, such as the Major Crimes Act, the Violence Against Women Act, the Tribal Law and Order Act, and the Indian Civil Rights Act, in order to prepare and present an effective defense in court or administrative proceedings.
• Must have an understanding of the legal reference resources, research techniques, and practices and procedures needed for effectively representing those charged with criminal offenses.
• Must have knowledge of basic public administration principles and practices, including budgeting, policy/procedure development, and employee training and supervision.
• Must have a valid Driver’s License for state of residency and be insurable through the Tribal Vehicle Insurance policy.
• Must pass a thorough background check including professional references, Criminal History, fingerprint check, and pre-employment drug test.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in Tribal court.
• Direct representation of criminal defendants.
• Jury trial experience.
• Experience with Juvenile Court Proceedings.
• Have an understanding of programs to which respondents may be assigned as a result of involuntary commitment proceedings.
• TERO preference.

Job Location

Ignacio, CO

How To Apply

Please apply online at: https://careers.southernute.com/pfund