Summary

Are you passionate about protecting constitutional rights and advocating for those who need it most? The

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 Sheridan 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 Sheridan, Wyoming

Nestled at the base of the Bighorn Mountains, Sheridan is known for its Western charm, strong community, and outstanding quality of life. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, or horseback riding, Sheridan offers easy access to incredible outdoor recreation. The city also boasts a thriving arts scene, historic downtown, and nationally recognized rodeos, making it a perfect blend of professional opportunity and small-town living. With stunning natural scenery and a welcoming legal community, Sheridan is an ideal place to grow your career as a public defender while enjoying an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Join us and make a difference in the Sheridan community!

Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck. Our total compensation package includes:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays
Retirement - Pension and 457B plans that help you build a secure future
Flexible schedules and work-life balance options
Meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities and MUCH MORE!

Click here for detailed information or you can watch this short video to learn about our benefit package!

Want to see the full value of your compensation beyond salary?

Explore our Total Compensation Calculator: https://compensationcalculator.wyo.gov

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.

Examples of duties

PREFERENCES/**AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:

While preference may be given to applicants who are currently licensed to practice law in Wyoming, recent law school graduates and those awaiting bar exam results are strongly encouraged to apply.

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.

Qualifications

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Travel required - as necessary by the caseload.

NOTES:

FLSA: Exempt - At Will Position

Supplemental information

Click here to view the State of Wyoming Total Compensation Calculator.

Click here to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.

URL: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wyoming/default.cfm

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.

Public Defender Practicing Attorney 2026-01958

Key skills

About this role

Summary

Examples of duties

Qualifications

Supplemental information