Description:

Applications are being accepted for a Deputy Assistant Public Defender located at the Bridgeport JD. This position provides legal representation to indigent persons accused of crimes as required by the constitutions of both the United States and the State of Connecticut. Daily tasks may include prepping a case for hearings or trials, attending jail visits with incarcerated clients, negotiating plea agreements, and working collaboratively with support staff, social workers and investigators.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Defend indigent clients; advise clients of rights and responsibilities; appear with and for clients at all court proceedings; represent clients at jury or court trials; review, evaluate and determine legal motions, defenses, pleas and other legal action on behalf of clients; negotiate plea negotiations and other agreements with Prosecutors and Judges; assist individuals impacted by mental illness and substance abuse; order investigations and subpoenas; request social work services; study and interpret laws, court decisions and other legal authorities; transport, quickly read, analyze and comprehend numerous files, including those related to complex cases, under tight deadlines and in crowded and noisy environment; interview witnesses; prepare briefs, motions and other legal documents; keep up to date on developments in law practice and attend training; develop and maintain relationships with outside agencies. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Candidates must be admitted to the Connecticut Bar; preference for candidates with experience in criminal defense and trial work.

Starting Salary: $93,275 - $105,249 based on experience with full State benefits for outside applicants.

Application Process: Applicants must submit Employment Application, Letter of Interest, Resume, Attorney Application Supplement and Attorney Reference form and a writing sample.

All forms can be obtained from our website:

https://portal.ct.gov/OCPD/Employment/Employment-Opportunities

Internal Applicants are required to submit an updated Attorney Application Supplement, Letter of Interest, Attorney References, Resume and writing sample.

All Application Documents Must Be Submitted in One Document Package and emailed OCPDHR@pds.ct.gov and James.Pastore@pds.ct.gov no later than December 3, 2025.

Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Affirmative Action/equal Opportunity Employer.

DPDS is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status.

Applications by members of all underrepresented groups are encouraged.