Public Defender-Practicing Attorney 2025-00770
Apply NowCompany: State of Wyoming
Location: Laramie, WY 82070
Description:
Salary : $60,652.68 - $137,362.92 Annually
Location : Laramie, WY
Job Type: Permanent Full-time
Job Number: 2025-00770
Department: Public Defender
Division: Public Defender
Opening Date: 03/19/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Exempt
Job Classification: ATTY99
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 in Laramie is dedicated to ensuring high-quality legal representation for indigent clients. Our attorneys fight for justice, develop their trial skills, and work alongside experienced mentors in a collaborative and supportive environment.
Why Choose a Career with the Wyoming Public Defender's Office?
Live and Work in Laramie, Wyoming
Laramie is a vibrant college town, home to the University of Wyoming, offering a dynamic legal environment with opportunities to engage with law students, faculty, and the broader legal community. Known for its strong sense of community, cultural events, and outdoor recreation, Laramie provides an excellent quality of life with access to hiking, skiing, and fishing in the nearby Snowy Range Mountains and Vedauwoo Recreation Area. With a low cost of living and a welcoming atmosphere, Laramie is the perfect place to build your career in public defense while enjoying all that Wyoming has to offer.
Join us and make a difference in the Laramie community!
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 which may be performed at the job level.
Qualifications
PREFERENCES/**AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:
Preference may be given to applicants who are active members of the Wyoming State Bar and licensed to practice as an attorney in this State.
**You must be licensed to practice law in Wyoming.
KNOWLEDGE:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Juris Doctorate
Experience:
0-2 years of relevant legal experience.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
Requires membership in the State Bar as an Attorney qualified to practice law in this state.
Necessary Special Requirements
PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
NOTES:
Supplemental Information
Click to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.
URL:
The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.
Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.
Working for the State of Wyoming provides employees with a range of valuable benefits and offers a fulfilling career path. Employees enjoy comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans, ensuring their well-being and that of their families. Additionally, the state offers multiple retirement plans, which provide financial security and stability for employees once their career in public services comes to an end. the state recognizes the importance of personal time and offers generous paid time off and flexible arrangements, allowing employees to recharge, take care of personal matters, and maintain a healthy work-life integration.
There are many benefits to living and working in Wyoming. Beautiful country with wide-open spaces, clean air, great recreational activities, and no State income tax to mention a few!
to learn more!
01
Do you have your Juris Doctorate?
02
Which of the following best describes your relevant legal experience after you obtained your JD?
03
Have you passed the State Bar for Wyoming or a state other than Wyoming?
04
If yes, which State(s), please list and include dates passed.
05
Are you an active member of the Wyoming State Bar and licensed to practice as an attorney in this State?
06
(A) Where did you hear about this opportunity?
07
(A1) If you selected "Current State Employee" please provide the employee's first and last name, and include the department they work for, if known. Please limit this response to only one employee. This employee may be eligible for a Referral Bonus.
08
(AA) If you answered Other, please tell us where you heard about this opportunity.
09
(AA) VETERANS' PREFERENCE DISCLOSURE: PER WYOMING STATUTE, current employees of the State of Wyoming are not eligible for veterans' preference. If you are not a current employee of the State of Wyoming, to be eligible to receive veterans' preference you MUST have been a resident of the State of Wyoming for a period of one (1) year or more at any time prior to submitting this application. I have read and understand the veterans' preference disclosure.
10
(AA) VETERANS' PREFERENCE: If you are a war veteran as defined in section 101, Title 38, United States Code or are the surviving spouse of a war veteran who receives survivor benefits from the federal government based on the veteran's military service, and wish to claim veterans' preference, please attach the appropriate documentation substantiating your claim. Indicate below your appropriate veterans' preference status. By requesting veterans' preference, you are certifying that you meet the statutory requirements as described in the above disclosure.
11
(AA) Please be advised that an incomplete application WILL NOT be considered for employment. An attached resume' is not required and is not an acceptable substitution for a completed application. Some State of Wyoming agencies use E-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities at https://www.uscis.gov/e-verify.I have read and understand the above statement.
Required Question
Location : Laramie, WY
Job Type: Permanent Full-time
Job Number: 2025-00770
Department: Public Defender
Division: Public Defender
Opening Date: 03/19/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Exempt
Job Classification: ATTY99
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 in Laramie is dedicated to ensuring high-quality legal representation for indigent clients. Our attorneys fight for justice, develop their trial skills, and work 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 wait years for serious cases, here you will quickly gain experience in assault, homicide, and felony cases early in your career.
- Mission-Driven Work: Make a real impact by providing legal defense 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 Laramie, Wyoming
Laramie is a vibrant college town, home to the University of Wyoming, offering a dynamic legal environment with opportunities to engage with law students, faculty, and the broader legal community. Known for its strong sense of community, cultural events, and outdoor recreation, Laramie provides an excellent quality of life with access to hiking, skiing, and fishing in the nearby Snowy Range Mountains and Vedauwoo Recreation Area. With a low cost of living and a welcoming atmosphere, Laramie is the perfect place to build your career in public defense while enjoying all that Wyoming has to offer.
Join us and make a difference in the Laramie community!
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 which may be performed at the job level.
- Client Representation: Defend clients at all stages of criminal proceedings, including arraignments, pre-trial hearings, trials, sentencing, and appeals.
- Case Preparation: Conduct legal research, draft motions, and develop defense strategies tailored to each case.
- Negotiation & Advocacy: Engage in plea negotiations with prosecutors, ensuring outcomes align with clients' best interests.
- Investigation: Work with investigators, expert witnesses, and other resources to gather evidence and build a strong defense.
- 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 and licensed to practice as an attorney in this State.
**You must be licensed to practice law in Wyoming.
KNOWLEDGE:
- Strong case management and prioritization skills.
- In-depth knowledge of trial procedures, rules of evidence, and criminal statutes.
- Excellent legal research and writing abilities.
- Ability to think quickly, adapt to courtroom challenges, and advocate effectively for clients.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Juris Doctorate
Experience:
0-2 years of relevant legal experience.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
Requires membership in the State Bar as an Attorney qualified to practice law in this state.
Necessary Special Requirements
PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Travel required - as necessary by the caseload.
NOTES:
- FLSA: Exempt - At Will Position
Supplemental Information
Click to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.
URL:
The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.
Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.
Working for the State of Wyoming provides employees with a range of valuable benefits and offers a fulfilling career path. Employees enjoy comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans, ensuring their well-being and that of their families. Additionally, the state offers multiple retirement plans, which provide financial security and stability for employees once their career in public services comes to an end. the state recognizes the importance of personal time and offers generous paid time off and flexible arrangements, allowing employees to recharge, take care of personal matters, and maintain a healthy work-life integration.
There are many benefits to living and working in Wyoming. Beautiful country with wide-open spaces, clean air, great recreational activities, and no State income tax to mention a few!
to learn more!
01
Do you have your Juris Doctorate?
- Yes
- No
02
Which of the following best describes your relevant legal experience after you obtained your JD?
- Less than one (1) year of relevant experience
- One (1) to less than six (6) years of relevant experience.
- Six (6) to less than ten (10) years of relevant experience
- Ten (10) or more years of relevant experience
03
Have you passed the State Bar for Wyoming or a state other than Wyoming?
- Yes
- No
04
If yes, which State(s), please list and include dates passed.
05
Are you an active member of the Wyoming State Bar and licensed to practice as an attorney in this State?
- Yes
- No
06
(A) Where did you hear about this opportunity?
- Goverment jobs www.governmentjobs.com/careers/wyoming
- Indeed
- Zip Recruiter
- Wyoming Workforce Center
- Other job sites (Wyoming at Work, Monster, etc.)
- Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)
- Newspaper/Newsletter Advertisement
- Career Fair
- Human Resources Division
- Friend or Acquaintance (Not State Employee)
- Current State Employee
- Other
07
(A1) If you selected "Current State Employee" please provide the employee's first and last name, and include the department they work for, if known. Please limit this response to only one employee. This employee may be eligible for a Referral Bonus.
08
(AA) If you answered Other, please tell us where you heard about this opportunity.
09
(AA) VETERANS' PREFERENCE DISCLOSURE: PER WYOMING STATUTE, current employees of the State of Wyoming are not eligible for veterans' preference. If you are not a current employee of the State of Wyoming, to be eligible to receive veterans' preference you MUST have been a resident of the State of Wyoming for a period of one (1) year or more at any time prior to submitting this application. I have read and understand the veterans' preference disclosure.
- Yes
- No
- I am not a veteran
10
(AA) VETERANS' PREFERENCE: If you are a war veteran as defined in section 101, Title 38, United States Code or are the surviving spouse of a war veteran who receives survivor benefits from the federal government based on the veteran's military service, and wish to claim veterans' preference, please attach the appropriate documentation substantiating your claim. Indicate below your appropriate veterans' preference status. By requesting veterans' preference, you are certifying that you meet the statutory requirements as described in the above disclosure.
- Current State Employee
- Veteran - DD214 Attached
- Disabled Veteran (10% or more) - DD214 and Veteran's Disability Determination Attached
- Surviving Spouse of a Deceased Veteran - DD214 and proof of Survivor Benefit Attached
- None of the above
11
(AA) Please be advised that an incomplete application WILL NOT be considered for employment. An attached resume' is not required and is not an acceptable substitution for a completed application. Some State of Wyoming agencies use E-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities at https://www.uscis.gov/e-verify.I have read and understand the above statement.
- Yes
- No
Required Question