Posting Date
12/16/25Application Deadline
Open Until FilledPay Range
$102000 - $165000 annuallyJob Type
UnclassifiedDepartment
Legal DefenderAbout the Position
Are you passionate about helping others Are you someone who we can count on to advocate professionally aggressively and ethically on behalf of indigent clients charged with criminal offenses in Maricopa County
If so look no further as the Maricopa County Office of the Legal Defender is looking for candidates to represent indigent clients when appointed by the court prepare cases for defense and present cases in all phases of court proceedings.
This recruitment is utilized to fill an Attorney tier II vacancy in the non-capital adult criminal trial group.
The level and compensation offered will be based on the education and experience provided on the application.
Attorneys hired at a tier II will be compensated at a range of $102000 $144500.
About the Office of the Legal Defender
The Office of the Legal Defender consists of attorneys and support staff helping to provide quality legal representation to indigent individuals assigned to us by the court thus safeguarding the fundamental legal rights of each member of the community.
If you would like to seek just and equitable treatment for our clients apply today and join our team!
Proud to Offer
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) employer
Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRHP) for attorneys
Work with a greater purpose
Tuition reimbursement
Exceptional work-life balance
Opportunities for growth and development within Maricopa County
Low-cost high-value healthcare for you and your qualifying dependents
Child care benefits including access to our on-site center Maricopa County Kids Club dedicated to serving Maricopa County families exclusively
Paid vacation sick time and parental leave
Extensive wellness program including healthcare premium discounts
Maricopa County participates in the Arizona State Retirement System. This defined retirement benefit requires a 12% monthly contribution rate and includes a 100% employer match on Day 1
Learn more at Work With Us Maricopa County AZ
We Require
Juris Doctor or Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved law school
One year of relevant experience as a practicing attorney
Licensed to practice law and a member in good standing with the State Bar of Arizona
Applications will be accepted from candidates who have passed the Arizona state bar examination or those transferring UBE scores and are awaiting admission to the bar but such candidates cannot be hired until admitted
Valid Arizona drivers license upon hire
We Also Value
Current admittance to the Arizona State Bar
Three years of experience as a practicing attorney in the area of criminal law
Experience practicing as an criminal trial attorney
Experience with adult criminal matters
Job Contributions
Appear in court represent clients at scheduled hearings and trials and present oral arguments in support of clients legal interests
Research facts and analyze legal issues using both computerized and printed legal research tools
Compose motions briefs correspondence and other legal documents
Prepare cases for trial by interviewing witnesses visiting crime scenes and other case-related locations and reviewing evidence on and off-site
Discuss and present analyses of legal issues to clients court personnel and related individuals
Communicate effectively in person and by phone with clients opposing counsel co-workers supervisors and others
Travel to courts jails detention centers and correctional facilities to effectively represent clients
Provide leadership for professionals including other attorneys mitigation specialists investigators and paralegals consistent with current assignment
Attends Continuing Legal Education seminars
Other duties as assigned including but not limited to assisting in other areas of the office as needed
Working Conditions
Most work is performed in an indoor office or courtroom environment
This position requires viewing traumatic subject matter including crime scenes accidents etc.
Ability to meet deadlines with a high volume of work interruptions time pressures handling multiple or complicated tasks unscheduled tasks frequently changing tasks accuracy decision making concentration/vigilance and/or teamwork
This position requires contact with the public and close working relationships with other staff members
Ability to lift carry or push up to 35 pounds for 200-300 feet
Work requires travel to and from job-related locations during a scheduled workday subject to County policies regarding the use of County vehicles and/or private vehicles used on County business
Selection Procedure
Only the most qualified candidates will be considered
Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications
Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile
Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitive
Maricopa County is an equal opportunity employer.
Apply Now!
Required Experience:
IC
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