Closing Date: 11th December, 2025
Description:
DescriptionThe Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy (DPA) is nationally recognized as a model state-wide 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 seeking to hire an entry level staff attorney as part of a criminal defense team for a vacancy within the Division of Post-Trial Services, Post-Conviction Branch, which is located in Frankfort, Kentucky. Kentucky DPA looks for individuals who have a desire to help the most vulnerable in their communities.
This position will be handling post-conviction litigation for indigent clients by researching complex legal issues and writing clear, concise post-conviction pleadings. Attorneys in the Post-Conviction Branch are expected to timely file post-conviction pleadings in all state courts and federal courts, when appropriate, promptly interview clients, and maintain contact through conclusion of the case. Additionally, attorneys will work collaboratively with other attorneys and staff on legal issues to ensure our clients receive a high level of representation.
Duties and 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 any required licensure(s), certification(s), or other credentials for the length of employment in this job classification. Employing agency is responsible for ensuring employee possesses and maintains required licensure(s), certification(s) or other credentials.
This position will be handling post-conviction litigation for indigent clients by researching complex legal issues and writing clear, concise post-conviction pleadings. Attorneys in the Post-Conviction Branch are expected to timely file post-conviction pleadings in all state courts and federal courts, when appropriate, promptly interview clients, and maintain contact through conclusion of the case. Additionally, attorneys will work collaboratively with other attorneys and staff on legal issues to ensure our clients receive a high level of representation.
Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Identifying potential issues in post-conviction cases.
- 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 any required licensure(s), certification(s), or other credentials for the length of employment in this job classification. Employing agency is responsible for ensuring employee possesses and maintains required licensure(s), certification(s) or other credentials.
Working Conditions
Duties are performed primarily in both office and courtroom settings. 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 Beth McMahon at elizabeth.mcmahon@ky.gov or 502-782-2970.
An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D