Closing Date: 9th October, 2026
Description:
DescriptionThe Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy (DPA) is nationally recognized as a model statewide public defender system with an exceptional training and education program. Our defense teams ensure the criminal justice process is fair, results are just, and individual liberties are protected.
We are hiring an Advocacy Attorney I to assist the criminal defense team in the Frankfort Post-Conviction Branch.
Kentucky DPA looks for individuals who have demonstrated a desire to help the most vulnerable in their communities. The ideal candidate is a licensed attorney who exhibits exceptional planning and organizational skills, is self-directed and comfortable working with their defense team which includes other attorneys, investigators, alternative sentencing workers and office administrative staff. We are seeking to hire people who understand it is a privilege to represent our clients, and we do so on behalf of the people of Kentucky.
This position will be handling post-conviction litigation for clients by researching complex legal issues and writing clear, concise post-conviction pleadings, promptly interviewing clients, maintaining contact through conclusion of the case in addition to working collaboratively with other attorneys and staff.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Minimum Requirements:
Education: See Special Requirements.
Experience, Training, or Skills: None
Substitute Education for Experience: None
Substitute Experience for Education: None
Special Requirements (Age, Licensure, Regulation, Etc.): Must be admitted to practice law and in good standing in the Commonwealth of Kentucky OR comply with Kentucky Supreme Court Rule (SCR) 2.111 (limited certification of admission to practice), SCR 2.112 (attorney participants in defender or legal services programs), SCR 2.116 (supervised practice), or SCR 2.117 (practice pending admission). Must maintain all required licensure(s), certification(s), or other credentials for the length of employment in this job classification. Employees are required to maintain all licenses, certifications, and credentials necessary to perform the duties of the position and must immediately notify the employing agency of any lapse, suspension, revocation, or restriction.
We are hiring an Advocacy Attorney I to assist the criminal defense team in the Frankfort Post-Conviction Branch.
Kentucky DPA looks for individuals who have demonstrated a desire to help the most vulnerable in their communities. The ideal candidate is a licensed attorney who exhibits exceptional planning and organizational skills, is self-directed and comfortable working with their defense team which includes other attorneys, investigators, alternative sentencing workers and office administrative staff. We are seeking to hire people who understand it is a privilege to represent our clients, and we do so on behalf of the people of Kentucky.
This position will be handling post-conviction litigation for clients by researching complex legal issues and writing clear, concise post-conviction pleadings, promptly interviewing clients, maintaining contact through conclusion of the case in addition to working collaboratively with other attorneys and staff.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Identifying potential issues in post-conviction cases.
- Timely filing post-conviction pleadings in all state courts and federal courts, when appropriate.
- Researching and writing legal pleadings on behalf of clients.
- Appearing in court to argue motions and conduct evidentiary hearings.
- Interviewing clients and other duties as required.
Minimum Requirements:
Education: See Special Requirements.
Experience, Training, or Skills: None
Substitute Education for Experience: None
Substitute Experience for Education: None
Special Requirements (Age, Licensure, Regulation, Etc.): Must be admitted to practice law and in good standing in the Commonwealth of Kentucky OR comply with Kentucky Supreme Court Rule (SCR) 2.111 (limited certification of admission to practice), SCR 2.112 (attorney participants in defender or legal services programs), SCR 2.116 (supervised practice), or SCR 2.117 (practice pending admission). Must maintain all required licensure(s), certification(s), or other credentials for the length of employment in this job classification. Employees are required to maintain all licenses, certifications, and credentials necessary to perform the duties of the position and must immediately notify the employing agency of any lapse, suspension, revocation, or restriction.
Working Conditions
Duties are performed primarily in an office or courtroom setting but may include visits with clients within a variety of facilities. Travel is required.
Probationary Period
This job has an initial and promotional probationary period of 6 months, except as provided in KRS 18A.111.
If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Adam Meyer at adam.meyer@ky.gov@ky.gov or 502-782-3586.
An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D
