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State of Idaho

Trial Attorney 2 - Bonner County

State of Idaho, Sandpoint, Idaho, United States, 83888

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Description The Idaho State Public Defender (SPD) is a newly created state agency that provides trial representation to indigent criminal defendants throughout the State of Idaho. The agency offers meaningful work that directly impacts citizens across the state and is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

Position:

Trial Attorney II – Bonner County Salary:

$94,000 annually (full‑time, 40 hours per week)

Position & Responsibilities

Defend clients in all misdemeanor criminal and delinquency cases, mental commitment hearings, child protective act cases, specialty court proceedings, and appeals to district court.

Prepare and present legal arguments in appeals, ensuring clients’ legal rights are protected at every level.

Develop case strategies, investigate facts, and review evidence to determine the best course of legal action.

Draft, file, and prosecute motions, briefs, and other legal documents in compliance with legal procedures and deadlines.

Negotiate with prosecutors to secure favorable plea agreements or case dismissals when appropriate.

Appear in court to argue motions, represent clients at hearings, and conduct bench or jury trials as required.

Collaborate with investigators, social workers, and expert witnesses to support the defense and address client needs holistically.

Exercise independent judgment in managing caseloads and resolving legal issues with minimal supervision.

Provide guidance and mentor less experienced attorneys as needed.

Stay current on relevant laws, legal precedents, and procedural changes through continuing legal education and training.

Conduct legal research and analyze data and legal documents.

Apply case law, the Rules of Criminal Procedure, the Rules of Evidence, and Constitutional principles.

Review and synthesize discovery.

Interview clients early and frequently and make decisions concerning bail, release from custody, and mental competency to stand trial.

Determine the need for expert witnesses, locate appropriate experts, and schedule them for trial when needed.

Work in the Case Management System (CMS) to document case work and timekeeping in accordance with SPD policy.

Practice vertical representation in all cases.

Follow the American Bar Association (ABA) standards for defending attorneys delivering indigent defense.

Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an accredited college or university law school.

Licensed to practice law, with Idaho State Bar Association membership in good standing.

Preferred Qualifications

1–2 years of experience as a practicing attorney or 1–2 year judicial clerkship.

Benefits

Lifetime benefit under the State of Idaho PERSI retirement system – General Member (mandatory employee contribution 7.18%, employer 11.96%).

Excellent low‑cost medical, dental, and vision insurance – employee coverage for PPO (medical and vision $70.74/month, dental $12.08/month, full‑time).

Generous vacation and sick leave accrual that begins as soon as you start.

Paid parental leave.

Eleven paid holidays per year.

Multiple retirement savings plans, including optional 401(k) and deferred compensation plan.

Group life insurance, disability insurance, and supplemental life insurance.

Employee Assistance Program.

Flexible Spending Accounts.

Wellness programs.

Location Sandpoint, Idaho

How To Apply Qualified applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, two references, and a writing sample through the State of Idaho Careers website (https://statecareers.idaho.gov/). Do not send materials directly to the agency. For assistance, contact Mariette Barcinas at

Mariette.Barcinas@spd.idaho.gov .

EEO/ADA/VETERAN The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals based on veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other status protected by law. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request. For accommodations, call (208) 334‑2263 (TTY/TTD: 711) or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov. Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations. Benefits may not apply to temporary or seasonal positions.

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