Closing Date: 2nd September, 2026
Description:
Job Summary:The Deputy Public Defender provides high-quality, compassionate, and principled legal representation to individuals who are unable to afford private counsel. Working under the direction of the Public Defender, the position manages an active caseload and represents clients throughout all stages of criminal and juvenile proceedings, including arraignments, pretrial hearings, motions, negotiations, trials, and post-conviction matters. Depending on assignment and experience, attorneys may also represent clients in mental health proceedings, civil commitment matters, and other specialized proceedings.
Deputy Public Defenders conduct legal research and investigations, develop defense strategies, advise clients regarding their rights and legal options, negotiate case resolutions, and provide zealous courtroom advocacy. The position works closely with investigators, social workers, behavioral health professionals, attorneys, and other justice-system partners to address the legal and underlying needs of clients.
To view the full job description, click here. (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/monocountyca/classspecs/1869371)
Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate is a skilled and compassionate attorney who is committed to public defense and protecting the constitutional rights of clients. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong legal research, writing, litigation, analytical, and decision-making skills, along with the ability to manage and prioritize a substantial caseload while exercising sound independent judgment. Strong courtroom advocacy skills and a genuine interest in developing expertise in criminal defense are essential.
The ideal candidate will approach public defense with empathy, professionalism, and a client-centered perspective. They will be comfortable working collaboratively with attorneys, investigators, social workers, behavioral health professionals, and other community partners to develop comprehensive defense strategies and connect clients with appropriate resources. The successful candidate will communicate effectively with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, maintain strict confidentiality and professional boundaries, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
About the Mono County Public Defender's Office
The Mono County Public Defender's Office is committed to ensuring fairness and equal justice for every client through high-quality, compassionate, and principled legal representation. Serving a small and diverse mountain community, the Office represents clients throughout all phases of criminal litigation, including misdemeanor and felony matters, juvenile proceedings, mental health proceedings, and other specialized cases. The Office also assists clients with post-conviction relief and record clearance to help reduce barriers to employment and successful reintegration into the community.
The Office takes a holistic approach to public defense, recognizing that the circumstances surrounding a client's legal case may intersect with mental health, substance use, housing instability, and other challenges. Attorneys work collaboratively with investigators, social workers, behavioral health professionals, and other agencies and providers to address these needs while developing effective defense strategies.
As a rural public defense office, Mono County offers attorneys the opportunity to develop broad litigation experience while working closely with experienced colleagues in a collaborative environment. The Office values teamwork, mentorship, shared expertise, and professional development, with a commitment to cultivating skilled and confident advocates who serve the community with excellence.
About the County
Mono County, California's Great Beyond (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BgcugYo7gc)
Mono County offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through public service while enjoying an exceptional quality of life. As a small, collaborative county organization, employees work closely with leadership, take on diverse responsibilities, and see the direct results of their work in the community.
What employees value about working at Mono County: Employees appreciate Mono County's location and lifestyle benefits, strong benefits package (including CalPERS retirement and health coverage), collaborative teams, and the opportunity to make a direct impact in public service. Our smaller, close-knit work environment fosters meaningful connections and supports work–life balance.
Mono County, Located in California's Eastern Sierra (https://youtu.be/nPHroGz5wmc?si=Q9aUP0bRJD-w_rha)
Mono County is a rural region with a dynamic community of 13,000 residents located in the eastern side of California's Sierra Nevada range. Development is increasing in the area due to the consistent growth of the town of Mammoth Lakes. Known as “California's Great Beyond” this natural playground offers a complete range of amenities and activities making it an ideal place to live and work. Enjoy fine shops, restaurants, and cafes. Snowboard, ski, or bike down mountain trails, fish for trout, explore the backcountry, play a round of golf, relax in soothing hot springs, or paddle a kayak along the shores of Mono Lake.
The town of Mammoth Lakes is the most populated region of Mono County, hosting Mammoth Mountain Ski area and various resort-community amenities. On the quieter side, June Lake, Lee Vining, Bridgeport, Walker, Coleville, Chalfant, and Benton offer a more rural atmosphere, unlimited outdoor adventures, and small-town charm.
Benefits Highlights
- Retirement: CalPERS retirement and 457/401(a) Plans available.
- Medical: CalPERS health plans
- Dental, Vision, Term Life
- Generous vacation and sick pay
- Discounted gym membership
Additional Information:
Qualifications:
- Deputy Public Defender I: Applicants must be law school graduates who have been licensed by and are in good standing with the State Bar of California or have taken the July 2026 California Bar Examination and are awaiting results. Employment under this classification is subject to the candidate passing the July 2026 California Bar Examination.No experience is required.
- Deputy Public Defender II: Applicants must be law school graduates who have been licensed by and are in good standing with the State Bar of California. A minimum of two (2) years of experience as a practicing Deputy Public Defender I is required.
Special Requirements:
Valid California Motor Vehicle Operator's License.
