Practicing Attorney

Description:

Description and Functions
Open Until Filled

General Description:
Are you passionate about protecting constitutional rights and advocating for those who need it most? The Wyoming State Public Defender's Office Appellate in Cheyenne is dedicated to ensuring high-quality legal representation for indigent clients. Our attorneys fight for justice and continually develop their advocacy and appellate skills while working alongside experienced mentors in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Why Choose a Career with the Wyoming Public Defender's Office?

• Unmatched Courtroom Experience: : Unlike larger jurisdictions where new attorneys can wait to analyze, brief and argue larger issues on complex matters, here you will quickly gain the opportunity to do so on various legal issues with the chance to argue those issues in front of the Wyoming Supreme Court.
• Mission-Driven Work: Make a real impact by providing appellate advocacy to those who cannot afford private representation.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Our positions qualify for PSLF, helping you manage student debt while pursuing meaningful work.
• Mentorship & Professional Growth: Work alongside experienced defenders who are committed to mentoring and supporting new attorneys.
• Competitive Benefits & Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a stable salary, generous paid time off, state retirement benefits, and access to Wyoming's incredible outdoor recreation.

Live and Work in Cheyenne, Wyoming
As Wyoming's capital and largest city, Cheyenne offers a blend of career opportunities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventure. From historic Western charm to vibrant local events like Cheyenne Frontier Days, you'll be part of a community with a rich legal and political environment. With quick access to hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation in Curt Gowdy State Park and the Medicine Bow National Forest, Cheyenne is the perfect place to grow your career while enjoying an excellent quality of life.

Join us and build a meaningful career in public defense!

Human Resource Contact: Samantha Drew / 307-777-7667 / samantha.drew2@wyo.gov

Essential Functions: The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.

• Client Representation: Represent clients at the appellate level by reviewing trial court cases for individuals who have primarily been convicted on felony criminal cases; analyzing any issues from the lower courts, leading to appellate briefs and arguments in front of the Wyoming Supreme Court.
• Case Preparation: Conduct legal research, draft briefs related to such, and potentially motions to correct an illegal sentence or modify a current sentence, depending on where the case leads.
• Ongoing Advocacy: Advise clients of the merits of their case as applicable to the post-conviction procedure to ensure outcomes that align with clients' best interests.
• Investigation: Conduct an independent investigation into post-conviction issues as they arise to determine viable options for the client at the appellate stage of the criminal justice system.
• Caseload Management: Handle a diverse caseload, ensuring timely case progression and compliance with court deadlines.
• Mentorship & Development: Provide guidance to junior attorneys or legal interns as needed, fostering professional growth within the office.
• Continuing Education: Stay current on changes in criminal law and public defense best practices through ongoing legal education and professional development.

Qualifications:
Preferences/**Agency Requirements:
Preference may be given to applicants who are active members of the Wyoming State Bar.

Preference may be given to applicants who have 3 years of relevant legal experience.

---