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Expect scenario questions on plea advice, conflicts, and balancing zealous advocacy with limited resources. Prepare examples of trial or hearing work, client communication under stress, and how you prioritize a heavy docket. Know core Sixth Amendment and Brady concepts.
Strong fit for licensed attorneys who want courtroom-heavy public defense work in county government, with resilience for volume practice and a service-oriented mindset.
As a Deputy/Senior Deputy Public Defender for Minnehaha County, a typical day centers on client meetings, reviewing discovery, and preparing motions or plea negotiations. Court time often includes arraignments, contested hearings, and trials. Senior deputies may mentor junior counsel, manage heavier caseloads, and handle more complex felonies while coordinating with investigators, social services, and prosecutors under constitutional defense standards.
Build strength in criminal procedure, evidence, and client-centered advocacy. Prioritize courtroom presence, rapid case triage, and ethical judgment under high caseloads. Study local court rules and sentencing frameworks relevant to public defense practice.
No. The listing marks the position as non-remote (on-site).
Minnehaha County, via minnehahacounty.com.
Saint Cloud, Stearns County, Minnesota, United States, per the provided location data.
Website: minnehahacounty.com
Public cache only — not an employee review.
Join the fight for fair representation: Minnehaha County Public Defender's Office is seeking a Deputy/Senior Deputy Public Defender based in Saint Cloud, Stearns County to provide skilled legal advocacy for those who need it most. This is a full-time position dedicated to delivering vigorous defense in criminal and juvenile proceedings. Role Overview As a Deputy/Senior Deputy Public Defender, you'll represent indigent clients who cannot afford private counsel. Your role centers on delivering skilled advocacy, building strong client relationships, and protecting constitutional rights throughout the court system. This position is critical to ensuring fair representation in our criminal and juvenile justice system. What You'll Do Represent clients in criminal and juvenile court proceedings Conduct thorough client interviews and develop case strategies Research case law, statutes, and legal precedent Prepare case documentation and legal motions Negotiate with prosecutors and court officials Advocate for clients in plea negotiations and trial Maintain professional relationships with courts and partners in the legal system Manage multiple active cases and deadlines efficiently Skills & Qualifications Juris Doctor degree with good standing in bar admission Active license to practice law Excellent oral and written communication abilities Strong advocacy and negotiation skills Commitment to serving low-income clients Ability to work effectively under pressure with heavy caseloads Professional judgment and ethical conduct More About Minnehaha County Minnehaha County Public Defender's Office serves the community by ensuring that indigent clients receive the skilled legal representation they deserve. The office works across both criminal and juvenile justice systems, addressing cases ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. If you're passionate about criminal justice and committed to upholding the right to counsel, this role offers meaningful work in service of your community. Applying for This Role To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.
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