New Hampshire Public Defender is seeking to fill several vacancies for the position of Staff Attorney to serve our mission of protecting and defending the rights and dignity of our clients with courage, compassion, and competency. Our office is committed to providing high-quality representation while serving the distinct needs of our youth and adult indigent clients. The position requires the ability to effectively communicate with your clients, spot and anticipate legal issues, write, edit, review motions, and make sound legal arguments in the courtroom. Successful applicants will be able to work independently and collaboratively.

First year public defenders will initially be responsible for a smaller caseload consisting of misdemeanor and youth cases. Based on individual professional growth, a new public defender’s caseload will grow. They will receive felony cases and co-counseling opportunities with experienced lawyers typically within the first few months of their employment. By the end of the first year, a new lawyer will be responsible for a full caseload consisting of felonies, misdemeanors, delinquency mattes, and others (probation/parole violations and other post-conviction matters).

Full-time and Part-time positions are available. 

Every Staff Attorney is provided with:

• Shared legal assistant (3:1 ratio)
• Shared investigators / social workers (ratio dependent on size/location of office)
• Internal IT department
• Internal state-wide trainings to satisfy annual CLE credits
• Surface Pro Laptop
• Digital case management system for case files (in addition to traditional paper files)
• Westlaw account
• Searchable NHPD Practice Guide

Benefits:

• NH State Health/Pharmacy/Dental Insurance
• Vison Insurance
• Life/Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• 403(b) Retirement Plan; employer matching after first year as outlined in plan agreement.
• Holidays
• Sick/Personal Time

  Job Requirements

• J.D. from an accredited law school or 3Ls who anticipate graduating from an accredited law school.
• Admitted to the New Hampshire Bar, eligible to waive into the New Hampshire Bar with a qualifying Uniform Bar Examination score or qualified for, prepared to take, and pass the New Hampshire Bar Examination in 2024.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Demonstrated commitment to criminal defense.
• A team-orientated, professional attitude.
• The ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• A strong and established work ethic.

How To Apply

Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and a law school transcript (unofficial acceptable).

NHPD is committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our workforce. We encourage and welcome qualified applicants of all identities, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.