Public Defender Practicing Attorney 2026

Description and FunctionsOpen Until FilledGENERAL DESCRIPTION: Are you passionate about protecting constitutional rights and advocating for those who need it most? The Wyoming State Public Defender’s Office 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 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 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 along with a short drive to reach Denver, Colorado, 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 /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: 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.**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 DoctorateExperience: 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
• This is an At-Will Position

Supplemental Information 008-Public Defender – TrialClick to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.Click to view the State of Wyoming total Compensation Calculator.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 means more than a job – it’s a stable, rewarding career that lets you make a difference while enjoying a great quality of life.Employees enjoy:

• Comprehensive health coverage – medical, dental, and vision plans for you and your family
• Voluntary Benefits – including life insurance for you and family members, ambulance, pet insurance, short/long-term disability, flex spending and health savings accounts
• Multiple retirement options – including the Wyoming Retirement System and a 457B account, helping you plan for long-term financial security
• Generous paid leave and flexible schedules – vacation, sick leave, paid FMLA and 11 paid holidays each year
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility – for those with qualifying student loans
• Training and professional development – to support your career growth and advancement
• Employee Assistance Program – Includes paid short-term counseling, legal, financial and work-life benefits and select employee discounts
• Wellness Program – Earn paid time off and incentives by focusing on your personal health

Know your full value.
Your paycheck is only part of the picture. The State of Wyoming offers a Total Compensation Calculator that shows the full value of your salary plus benefits, so you can clearly see what your complete compensation package looks like.Explore your total compensation:
WORKING FOR THE GREATEST STATE IN THE NATION – Wyoming offers a lifestyle you can’t find anywhere else – wide-open spaces, clean air, friendly communities, year-round recreation, and no state income tax.or .

State of Wyoming