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County Public Defender Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Risk Management Dir

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$102K - $154K/yr

Demonstrates an advanced knowledge of risk management, especially in the public sector. Works closely with civil attorneys in representing the County in claims and any resulting litigation. Work is ...

Demonstrates an advanced knowledge of risk management, especially in the public sector. Works closely with civil attorneys in representing the County in claims and any resulting litigation. Work is ...

Demonstrates an advanced knowledge of risk management, especially in the public sector. Works closely with civil attorneys in representing the County in claims and any resulting litigation. Work is ...

Demonstrates an advanced knowledge of risk management, especially in the public sector. Works closely with civil attorneys in representing the County in claims and any resulting litigation. Work is ...

County Public Defender information

What is the difference between County Public Defender vs County Assistant Public Defender?

AspectCounty Public DefenderCounty Assistant Public Defender
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law license, relevant legal experienceSame as Public Defender, often with less experience
Work EnvironmentHandles complex cases, manages caseloads, supervises staffAssists Public Defender, handles assigned cases, supports team
Employer & IndustryCounty government, criminal defenseCounty government, criminal defense

The County Public Defender is the lead attorney responsible for managing the public defense office and handling complex cases, while the County Assistant Public Defender supports the Public Defender, manages assigned cases, and assists in case preparation. Both roles require similar credentials and work within the same government and industry environment, but differ in responsibilities and seniority.

What does a county public defender do?

A County Public Defender is a lawyer appointed by the court to represent individuals who cannot afford to hire a private attorney in criminal cases. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that defendants receive fair legal representation and that their rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process. Public defenders handle a range of cases, from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and may also assist with appeals and juvenile matters. They work within the local county jurisdiction and often manage large caseloads, advocating for their clients in court and negotiating with prosecutors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a county public defender?

To thrive as a County Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, state bar admission, and strong legal research, litigation, and criminal defense skills. Familiarity with case management software, legal research databases, and courtroom technology is typically required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and empathy are critical soft skills for effectively representing clients and managing high caseloads. These skills and qualities ensure effective advocacy, uphold clients' rights, and maintain justice within the legal system.

What are some typical challenges faced by county public defenders in balancing caseloads and providing effective representation?

County Public Defenders often manage high caseloads, which can make it challenging to devote sufficient time to each client. Balancing the demands of court appearances, case preparation, and client communication requires strong organizational skills and resilience. Despite these challenges, public defenders play a crucial role in ensuring fair legal representation for all, often working closely with investigators, social workers, and other attorneys. Supportive team environments and ongoing training can help public defenders navigate these demands and continue to grow professionally.
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Infographic showing various County Public Defender job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Weber Public Defender Group Contract Attorney

Weber County

Ogden, UT

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Weber County rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

482nd of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Weber Public Defender Group Contract Attorney

The Weber Public Defender Group is accepting letters of interest for Contract Attorneys. This register will remain open on a continual basis to accommodate needs of the Weber Public Defender Group.

Application Process:

The application period for this position will remain open on a continual basis for future needs. Interested candidates must submit a formal letter of interest and a current resume to Director Jim Retallick at jretallick@webercountyutah.gov and jhorne@webercountyutah.gov.  Eligible candidates will receive further instructions as needs arise.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Public Defender Contract-Weber County, Utah is accepting applications for a contract attorney to represent indigent parties in the Second District, Ogden Department Courts. The contract will be for a 3-year period. The selected attorney will be required to physically appear weekly in two district court criminal law and motion calendars as part of a three-attorney team and provide quality legal representation to assigned indigent clients at all stages of a criminal proceeding: from initial appearance to case resolution, as well as post-conviction matters such as orders to show cause, restitution hearings, and filing of notices of appeal. Defense resources such as legal research software, investigators, experts, forensic social workers, and conflict counsel will be covered by the Weber Public Defender Group. Compensation will be determined based on years of practice and experience. Additional compensation may be available if other courts are covered. Despite the flat fee nature of the contract the applying attorney will be expected to prioritize their service under the contract as primary in relation to any other professional duties.



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