Assistant Public Defender

Requirements

• Education: Juris Doctorate
• Experience: Under one (1) year of relevant experience.
• Member in good standing with the State Bar of Arizona
• License/Certifications: A valid and unrestricted driver's license with two (2) years of licensed driving is required.
• Bilingual
• Experience in Criminal Law
• Trial experience and or Immigration experience preferred but not mandatory. POSITION DETAILS
• Job Profile
• J0640 - Assistant Public Defender To view the full job profile including classification specifications and physical demands click https://www.tucsonaz.gov/Departments/Human-Resources/Tucson-Talent .
• Compensation Grade
• G110 Hourly Range
• $35.37 - 53.05 USD The City of Tucson considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
• Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
• Exempt Position Type
• Regular Time Type
• Full time Department
• City Public Defender Department Link
• https://www.tucsonaz.gov/Departments/Tucson-City-Court/Public-Defender Background Check
• This position has been designated to require a criminal background check. The City of Tucson is a Second Chance Employer.

Benefits

Additional Information

Posting Close Date Applicants must submit their completed application by 07-05-2026 at 11:59 p.m. MST Application and Special Instructions The position is at the Public Defender's Office. The Public Defender's Office is an Arizona Lawyer Apprentice Program (ALAP) qualifying employer and will accept applicants who qualify for the ALAP certification and licensing. This position is on-site at City Court Public Defender's Office. Remote or hybrid work arrangements are not available at this time. Interview Information: Highest‑scoring applicants will be invited to an in‑person panel interview at the City Court Public Defender's Office on July 16, 2026. A hiring interview may be conducted as part of the selection process. The eligibility list established from this process may be used to fill positions as they become available over the next six (6) months. Recruiter Contact Information: If you have any questions, please contact Ankita Bhargava at LBS_HR@tucsonaz.gov. ABOUT THIS JOB Position Specific Summary The Assistant Public Defender position at the City of Tucson's Public Defender's Office advises indigent clients on a wide range of direct and collateral consequences of criminal prosecution and is responsible for all pretrial functions. This position requires court coverage for other attorneys and is occasionally called to court for client assistance. This position works under the supervision of the Supervising Public Defender. This position does not supervise. Duties and Responsibilities Prepares cases for trial by conducting client interviews (in-person, virtual, telephonic, and jail). Reviews and evaluates evidence. Researches legal issues and specific case issues. Drafts legal documents. Conducts witness interviews. Participates in plea negotiations and settlement conferences. Prepares evidence and documents to present for trial per city and state guidelines. Provides case staffing/consulting. Conducts crime scene investigations and prepares exhibits such as photos, diagrams, and documents. Defends clients in City Court by attending hearings, in both virtual and in-person environment, arguing relevant issues and case law, presenting mitigating factors, conducting direct and cross examination of witnesses, making objections, introducing evidence. Conducts legal hearings, evidentiary hearings, jury and/or bench trials. Presents documentation and other relevant information to appropriate individuals including prosecutors (for plea negotiations) and supervisors (for case review). Leads paraprofessionals, assistants, seasonal employees, law students/interns, volunteers, or temporary employees on requests related to client representation. Other duties and tasks as assigned under the direction of the supervisor/administration. Working Conditions Mostly office environment. All duties and responsibilities listed are subject to change.

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