Trial Attorney (Attorney 1-4)
The Alaska Public Defender Agency hires new and experienced attorneys to handle criminal, juvenile, family defense (Child in Need of Aid), commitment, appellate, and post-conviction relief cases. The Agency has thirteen offices statewide, located in Anchorage, Bethel, Dillingham, Fairbanks, Juneau, Kenai, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Kotzebue, Nome, Palmer, Sitka, and Utqiagvik. Salaries vary based on years of experience and by location based on cost-of-living adjustments.
Attorneys for the Alaska Public Defender Agency provide court-appointed legal representation to indigent clients. Our attorneys enjoy the mentorship and community of a statewide defense agency, training opportunities, and competitive benefits and salaries. The Agency provides paid time off to study for the Bar examination, pays annual Bar dues, and reimburses some moving expenses. Alaska allows a 10-month limited license to practice for public defenders prior to being admitted to the Alaska Bar Association.
Applicants for all positions should possess strong writing and analytical skills, be able to work independently, and possess strong oral advocacy skills, Applicants must also be committed to client-centered practice. Travel to remote Alaskan communities is necessary. Applicants must be admitted to the Alaska Bar Association, be willing to sit for the next Bar exam, or be eligible for admission by reciprocity. Prior legal experience preferred.
To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, legal writing sample of 15 pages or less, and three references by email to PDARecruitment@alaska.gov. The legal writing sample should reflect the applicant's own work without significant revision from others. Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.