Public Defender Practicing Attorney 2026

Posting number: 2026-02337

Department: Public Defender

Division: Public Defender

Job classification: ATTY99 - ATTORNEY

Posting type: Open

Categories: Attorney

Provides legal representation to indigent clients charged with crimes, ensuring they receive a fair trial. Conducts interviews with clients and witnesses to gather relevant information. Prepares legal documents, including motions, briefs, memoranda, and other filings. Argues motions before the trial court and represents clients during hearings and trials, advocating for their rights and interests.

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.

Juris Doctorate

0-2 years of relevant legal experience.

Are you passionate about protecting constitutional rights and advocating for those who need it most? The Wyoming State Public Defender’s Office in Cheyenneis 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.

• 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, WyomingAs 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!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, oryou 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:compensationcalculator.wyo.gov

• 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.

Requires membership in the State Bar as an Attorney qualified to practice law in this state.

• Travel required - as necessary by the caseload.

• FLSA: Exempt
• This is an At-Will Position

008-Public Defender - Trial

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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.