Deputy/Senior Deputy Public Defender

Job Description

Why Join Our Team

The Minnehaha County Public Defender's Office is looking for a dedicated Deputy/Senior Deputy Public Defender with excellent advocacy skills who is committed to ensuring justice to indigent clients appearing in the criminal and juvenile justice system. We are currently seeking an applicant who is interested in becoming part of an experienced litigation team that has a high capacity for trials and offers an expansive opportunity for courtroom practice. Apply now to be considered for this opportunity to grow your criminal defense practice, access our expansive document library, and surround yourself with skilled criminal defense attorneys.

A comprehensive benefits package includes paid holidays; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous PTO program; extended sick leave program; inclusion in the South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS); and a deferred compensation plan!

***Please attach a cover letter to the online application .***

This posting will remain open until filled. Review of applications begins on March 17, 2026.
The 2026 hiring range is $3,780.00 to $4,376.00/biweekly.

How You Will Make an Impact

• Advocate on behalf of individuals charged with felonies and misdemeanors through all phases of litigation to include pre-trial, trial, and litigating all aspects of the case through disposition.
• Coordinate efforts with a support team of paralegals and other staff to ensure the responsible handling of a demanding caseload through disposition of the case.
• Maintain client communications by telephone, office appointments, and institutional visits. Keep client apprised of investigations, negotiations, and court rulings.
• Appear at regularly scheduled court dockets and appearances related to an assigned caseload.
• Conduct legal research and draft motions and pleadings.
• Interview witnesses and review legal documents, police reports, transcripts, and related correspondence.
• Attend professional development training both within and outside the office.

What You Need to Succeed in this Role

• Graduation from a college of law and attainment of a Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school. Admission by the Supreme Court of South Dakota to practice law in the State of South Dakota or be licensed to practice law in any other state and able to take the next bar examination offered in South Dakota. This opportunity is also open to recent law school graduates who are eligible to sit for the next available South Dakota bar examination. Comparable combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Possession of a valid driver's license and must maintain a safe driving record with Minnehaha County.
• Must successfully complete pre-employment background process.
• Working knowledge of civil and criminal law, court procedures, and the principles and practices of legal research.
• Ability to work with a diverse population and be attentive to the needs of the clientele.
• Working knowledge of the principles, methods, materials, and practices utilized in legal research.
• Working knowledge of general law and established precedents.
• Ability to speak and write effectively in the preparation and presentation of legal matters.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, clients, other agencies, and the public.
• Ability to maintain professional appearance and demeanor.
• Demonstrates a commitment to working with the indigent accused and to providing social advocacy to the clientele served by the Public Defender's Office.
  Consideration for appointment as a Senior Deputy Public Defender requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience.

EEO Statement

Minnehaha County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, sex or gender including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran’s status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by contacting Human Resources at (605) 367-4337.