DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

THE WASHOE COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Public Defender in the Criminal Division. Attorneys in the Criminal Division represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings with an emphasis on holistic defense. Prior experience and demonstrated interests in criminal defense and/or serving vulnerable populations are preferred but not required. The Public Defender’s Office offers a comprehensive training program and a supportive team environment. The salary range starts at $112,694. Washoe County provides employer-paid contributions to PERS, health insurance, and a wide range of other competitive benefits. Our office is located in Reno, NV at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and less than one hour from beautiful Lake Tahoe

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 $112,694.40 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 $112,694.40 – $241,529.60 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.

To apply, please submit a letter of interest and resume to Joseph Goodnight, Chief Deputy Public Defender, at [email protected].