Deputy Public Defender

Position:
Deputy Public Defender (Attorney IV-V)

Location:
Modesto, California (Stanislaus County)

Employment Type:
Full-time, continuous recruitment

Salary Range:
$133,640 – $182,457.60 annually

About the Role

Join the Stanislaus County Public Defender's Office as a senior-level attorney handling complex and sensitive criminal defense matters. In this role, you will:

• Interview and advise defendants on their constitutional rights and related considerations (including immigration consequences).
• Analyze case materials, conduct investigations, interview witnesses and collaborate with authorities as needed.
• Conduct legal research and apply statutory, constitutional, and case law to strong defense representation.
• Appear in court for hearings, motions, trials (including felony jury trials), and related advocacy.
• Potentially mentor or direct less experienced staff (particularly at the IV-V level) and assume leadership responsibilities.

Who We're Looking For

• Admitted to the California State Bar with active and valid license.
• For Attorney IV: Minimum one year of experience at Attorney III level (or equivalent).
• For Attorney V: Minimum one year of experience at Attorney IV level (or equivalent).
• Excellent litigation skills, strong advocacy ability, exceptional legal writing and research skills.
• A passion for public defense, client-centered representation, and serving underserved communities.
• Ability to handle multiple complex cases simultaneously, including felonies, preliminary hearings and trials.
• Willingness to work overtime, standby, weekends and callback assignments as required.

Why Join Us

• Competitive base salary with potential for additional pay (e.g., continuing legal education pay, lead pay, bilingual pay) as per bargaining unit agreement
• Excellent benefits: health, dental, vision, professional development reimbursement (~$900/yr), bar dues paid, paid professional leave.
• Opportunity to work in a dedicated Public Defender's Office committed to reducing the harms of the criminal legal system and advocating for clients with dignity and respect.
• Based in a diverse and growing Central California community— close to the Bay Area, Sierra Nevada and Central Coast.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a complete online application through Stanislaus County's job portal:

Be sure to include:

• Your active California State Bar license number/proof of license.
• Resume highlighting relevant litigation experience, including felony work and trial experience.
• Cover letter expressing your commitment to public defense and how your experience aligns with the role.
• Applications are screened on a continuous basis; early submission is encouraged.

Equal Opportunity Employer

• Stanislaus County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. We value the experience of all applicants and are committed to inclusive recruitment.