Assistant Public Defender

The Law Office of Stacy A. Scott, 8th Circuit Public Defender, is seeking both entry-level and experienced attorneys for the position of Assistant Public Defender. We are also interviewing third-year law students and we make pre-graduation offers that include the option to work at our office while studying for the Florida Bar Exam. Stacy A. Scott is an elected official who has a constitutional duty to provide excellent legal representation to people charged with criminal offenses who cannot afford to hire an attorney. Her office employs nearly 40 lawyers plus investigators, a full-time social worker, and other legal support staff to assist with the more than 15,000 cases handled each year in the six counties that make up the 8th Circuit.

Position Type: Full time, Assistant Public Defender position

Job Description: Assistant Public Defenders provide highly effective and professional representation to our clients. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• zealously advocating for each client through critical analysis of cases, motion practice, and jury trials;
• preparing each case efficiently and effectively utilizing office and community resources;
• ability to manage a high volume caseload while maintaining adequate levels of communication and attention to individual clients;
• advising and counseling clients in order to achieve the best result possible in their case;
• establishing and maintaining a professional relationships with clients and the legal community;
• utilizing innovative, holistic defense strategies to achieve the best outcome for clients.

Requirements/Qualifications:

• Applicants must be in good standing with the Florida Bar;
• Applicants who have completed the Florida Bar exam and are awaiting results will also be considered, as well as 3rd year law students who are scheduled to take the Florida Bar;
• excellent communication skills, both verbal and written;
• good technology skills;
• professional demeanor and a desire for excellence in the practice of law.
• bilingual skills: English/Spanish are helpful but not required;
• jury trial experience preferred;
• participation in a law school trial advocacy course or litigation skills program preferred;
• dedication to serving clients and providing the best possible legal representation to our clients;
• valid Florida Driver's License, proof of automobile insurance, and reliable vehicle; or alternate means of reliable, self-transportation is required, as job-related travel is required.