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DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

Washoe County
Reno, NV Full Time
POSTED ON 12/27/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 1/26/2026
THE WASHOE COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER’S OFFICE 

is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Public Defender in the Criminal Division for a position that will become available on January 21, 2025. Attorneys in the Criminal Division represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings with an emphasis on holistic defense and trial work. Successful candidates will have clearly demonstrated an aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, a reputation for personal integrity, and the ability to work cooperatively in a team environment. Prior experience and demonstrated interests in criminal defense and/or serving vulnerable populations are preferred but not required.

A successful candidate must be fully admitted to the Nevada bar on or before the start date. Nevada does not have reciprocity with any other jurisdictions.

The Washoe County Public Defender’s Office offers competitive salary and benefits in the public service sector in Northern Nevada. Salary for the entry level position starts at $110,947 annually.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

Graduation from a recognized law school and some experience in the practice of law; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

LICENSE OR CERTIFICATE 

  • Current membership in the Bar in the State of Nevada.
  • A valid driver's license is required at the time of appointment.

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER I
Graduation from a recognized law school and some experience in the practice of law; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER II 
Graduation from a recognized law school and one year of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender I in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER III 

Graduation from a recognized law school and two years of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender II in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER IV

Graduation from a recognized law school and two years of full-time experience in the practice of law equivalent to that of a Deputy Public Defender III in Washoe County; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

Candidates must be licensed to practice law in the State of Nevada or eligible for immediate admission to the Nevada bar. Training provided in a team-based atmosphere.  This is a fulltime government position and salary range, depending on experience, is $107,723.20 – $230,859.20 and comes with excellent benefits including health insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, and employer-paid public employee retirement. For a full review of benefits visit https://www.washoecounty.us/humanresources/Benefits/index.php

Reference and background checks will be conducted on selected applicants. 

Please send a resume and cover letter to Joseph Goodnight, Chief Deputy Public Defender, Training & Resources Supervisor, at jgoodnight@washoecounty.gov.

 

 

Salary : $110,947 - $237,786

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