Job Details
Deputy Defenders (All Locations)
2026-01-15 State of Oregon all cities,AK
Description:
Northwest Regional Trial Division (Portland, OR) > Hiring Manager, Brian Decker
Central Services Trial Division (Salem, OR) > Hiring Manager, Aaron Jeffers
Southwest Trial Division (Medford) > Hiring Manager, Alyssa Bartholomew
Salary Range: $8,842 - $11,800
What's in it for you
You will become part of an innovative and strategic group of professionals and enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package!
Graduation from an accredited law school AND member of the Oregon State Bar or eligible for membership through reciprocity or a program approved by the Oregon State Bar ANDmeets or exceeds OPDC standards for court appointed counsel in Misdemeanor Cases, Lesser Felony Cases, or Major Felony Cases Attorney Standards, Certification Form, and Supplemental Questions (oregon.gov) AND Valid Oregon Driver's license.
What you will do
Deputy Defenders in the Trial Division are Public Defenders who provide court appointed legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients who are charged with criminal offenses in the circuit courts in the State of Oregon. Deputy Defender attorneys are expected to represent clients from arraignment through filing of post-trial motions. There may also be occasional pre-indictment representations. Case types will include probation violations, misdemeanors and contempt charges, lesser and major felonies, extradition proceedings, and other adjudications that are directly related to these matters.
Application Guidance
Application Requirements
REQUIRED: Attach your most up-to-date Resume. Please ensure your Workday profile matches your submitted resume.
REQUIRED: Attach a cover letter that details how you meet the desired attributes for this position. Your cover letter should be no more than 2-pages. (A Cover Letter that does not meet the required criteria will be graded as ineligible.)
**APPLICATIONS THAT DO NOT PROVIDE THE ABOVE DOCUMENTS WILL NOT MOVE FORWARD IN THE RECRUITMENT**
Duties
Interviewing and communicating with clients
Effectively communicate with clients and inform clients of the status of their cases at all stages.
Ensure redacted discovery and all significant filings are sent to clients, as appropriate. Protect confidential information and communications between clients and the office.
Be available to the client, and, if in custody, visit the client at the jail or correctional facility as needed.
Arraignment and release/preventative detention hearings advocacy
Vertical representation of clients is a priority.
Attend the client's arraignment, if possible, and argue for release at the initial appearance and/or preventative detention.
Legal research and writing
Be able to assess and identify legal issues, including novel arguments. Contain well-reasoned and analytical sound arguments based on the facts and the evidence, supported by accurate statements of relevant law, and applied to the circumstances.
Understand and comply with rules regarding legal citations and formatting.
Be familiar with and utilize legal research tools and software, including Westlaw, and legal resources, and be able to research the law, from administrative rules to constitutional provisions.
Preparing and arguing pretrial motions, affidavits, and legal memoranda
Draft and review the legal briefs and memorandum in support of pretrial motions.
Understand the strengths and weaknesses of both side of the motion and be prepared to persuasively argue the defense arguments and respond to the state's argument, with appropriate references to, and discussions, of the relevant facts and law.
Dispositional and/or sentencing advocacy and post-trial motions, excluding appeals.
Ensure mitigation investigation is conducted and understand the facts and relevant law as it relates to sentencing and alternatives to sentencing.
Jury and bench trials of criminal cases
Make appropriate decisions, in consultation with the client, regarding a jury or bench trial.
At trial, be well-organized, clear, and concise, and meet or exceed the standards and guidelines for criminal defense representation.
Representation of clients in interlocutory/appellate proceedings
If appropriate, defend against a state interlocutory appeal of a pretrial motion (i.e., motion to suppress evidence).
The Top (6) Desired Attributes for this Role
These attributes collectively support a public defender in providing competent, effective, and ethical representation to clients:
1. Must have strong and clear communication skills (written, verbal, non-verbal, listening)
2. Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and demonstrate flexibility through prioritization.
3. Must be highly organized with strong attention to detail.
4. Ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines.
5. Familiarity with legal software
6. Demonstrated commitment to Public Defense experience working with underserved populations (houselessness, addiction, disability, mental health, etc.)
Who we are.
The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is an agency governed by a 13-member commission appointed by the Governor, which serves as the governing body for Oregon's public defense system. The Commission provides policy direction and oversight for the administration of the system. The legal services provided by OPDC represent an essential component of Oregon's public safety system.
OPDC's mission is to ensure constitutionally competent and effective legal representation for persons eligible for a public defender. Its office includes the Executive, Appellate, Trial, Trial Development & Resources, and Administrative Services Divisions.
OPDC negotiates contracts with trial level public defense providers and administers and distributes funds for representation and related services for cases during the biennium for criminal, juvenile, and civil commitment cases. The Agency provides compliance and oversight to the trial community providers through quality assurance practices, training, and education. Financial Services processes all expenses related to representation in public defense cases. The Appellate Division provides direct legal representation in the state appellate courts in criminal cases, juvenile dependency and termination of parental rights cases, and parole cases. Other services in the Agency include, Data Collection and Analysis, General Counsel, Human Resources, Information Technology Services, Internal Audit, and Policy Development.
Recruitment Timeline
*These dates are approximate and may change. *
Recruitment Closes: Thursday, April 30, 2026 @ 11:59P
Recruiter Screening for Minimum Qualifications: On-going
Hiring Manager Screening for Desired Attributes: On-going
Interviews: On-going
Veterans Preference
Eligible veterans who meet the qualifications will be given veterans' preference. If you checked that you are a veteran, be sure to submit your documentation prior to the close date of this posting. For more information, please go to the State website:
OPDC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and is strongly committed to enhancing the diversity of its workforce. Assistance will be provided in the recruitment, application, and selection process to applicants with disabilities who request such assistance. Please call (503) ###-#### as early as possible regarding any assistance you may require.
Initial Posting Date:
10/31/2025
Application Deadline:
04/30/2026
Agency:
Oregon Public Defense Commission
Salary Range:
$8,842 - $11,800
Position Type:
Employee
Position Title:
Deputy Defenders (All Locations)
Job Description:
The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is seeking dedicated, skilled attorneys to join our team as Deputy Defenders. This is a unique opportunity to serve the cause of justice by ensuring that every client-regardless of background orcircumstance-receives high-quality legal representation. As a Deputy Defender, you will work alongside passionate advocates committed to upholding constitutional rights, shaping fair legal outcomes, and advancing the integrity of our public defense system. If you are motivated by meaningful courtroom work, collaboration, and a genuine desire to make a difference in people's lives, we encourage you to apply.
Position: Deputy Defender
- This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified applicants to fill current and future vacancies as they occur.
Northwest Regional Trial Division (Portland, OR) > Hiring Manager, Brian Decker
Central Services Trial Division (Salem, OR) > Hiring Manager, Aaron Jeffers
Southwest Trial Division (Medford) > Hiring Manager, Alyssa Bartholomew
Salary Range: $8,842 - $11,800
What's in it for you
You will become part of an innovative and strategic group of professionals and enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package!
- OPDC supports and encourages work/life balance and overall wellness and offers a generous benefits package including, employer-paid health insurance, vacation, and sick leave, eleven paid holidays, three paid personal days, flexible spending accounts, and an employer contribution retirement plan (PERS).
- The posted salary range is the total possible range for the classification. If you are already a participating PERS member or once you become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6%. The top candidate will be screened through a Pay Equity process that evaluates various factors. Please see the Pay Equity website for more information.
- As a state employee, you may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, helping you achieve financial freedom while making a difference.
Graduation from an accredited law school AND member of the Oregon State Bar or eligible for membership through reciprocity or a program approved by the Oregon State Bar ANDmeets or exceeds OPDC standards for court appointed counsel in Misdemeanor Cases, Lesser Felony Cases, or Major Felony Cases Attorney Standards, Certification Form, and Supplemental Questions (oregon.gov) AND Valid Oregon Driver's license.
What you will do
Deputy Defenders in the Trial Division are Public Defenders who provide court appointed legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients who are charged with criminal offenses in the circuit courts in the State of Oregon. Deputy Defender attorneys are expected to represent clients from arraignment through filing of post-trial motions. There may also be occasional pre-indictment representations. Case types will include probation violations, misdemeanors and contempt charges, lesser and major felonies, extradition proceedings, and other adjudications that are directly related to these matters.
Application Guidance
- Current State of Oregon Employees: Apply via your employee Workday account.
- External applicants: View this application instructional video. A PDF is also available by clicking here.
Application Requirements
REQUIRED: Attach your most up-to-date Resume. Please ensure your Workday profile matches your submitted resume.
REQUIRED: Attach a cover letter that details how you meet the desired attributes for this position. Your cover letter should be no more than 2-pages. (A Cover Letter that does not meet the required criteria will be graded as ineligible.)
**APPLICATIONS THAT DO NOT PROVIDE THE ABOVE DOCUMENTS WILL NOT MOVE FORWARD IN THE RECRUITMENT**
Duties
Interviewing and communicating with clients
Effectively communicate with clients and inform clients of the status of their cases at all stages.
Ensure redacted discovery and all significant filings are sent to clients, as appropriate. Protect confidential information and communications between clients and the office.
Be available to the client, and, if in custody, visit the client at the jail or correctional facility as needed.
Arraignment and release/preventative detention hearings advocacy
Vertical representation of clients is a priority.
Attend the client's arraignment, if possible, and argue for release at the initial appearance and/or preventative detention.
Legal research and writing
Be able to assess and identify legal issues, including novel arguments. Contain well-reasoned and analytical sound arguments based on the facts and the evidence, supported by accurate statements of relevant law, and applied to the circumstances.
Understand and comply with rules regarding legal citations and formatting.
Be familiar with and utilize legal research tools and software, including Westlaw, and legal resources, and be able to research the law, from administrative rules to constitutional provisions.
Preparing and arguing pretrial motions, affidavits, and legal memoranda
Draft and review the legal briefs and memorandum in support of pretrial motions.
Understand the strengths and weaknesses of both side of the motion and be prepared to persuasively argue the defense arguments and respond to the state's argument, with appropriate references to, and discussions, of the relevant facts and law.
Dispositional and/or sentencing advocacy and post-trial motions, excluding appeals.
Ensure mitigation investigation is conducted and understand the facts and relevant law as it relates to sentencing and alternatives to sentencing.
Jury and bench trials of criminal cases
Make appropriate decisions, in consultation with the client, regarding a jury or bench trial.
At trial, be well-organized, clear, and concise, and meet or exceed the standards and guidelines for criminal defense representation.
Representation of clients in interlocutory/appellate proceedings
If appropriate, defend against a state interlocutory appeal of a pretrial motion (i.e., motion to suppress evidence).
The Top (6) Desired Attributes for this Role
These attributes collectively support a public defender in providing competent, effective, and ethical representation to clients:
1. Must have strong and clear communication skills (written, verbal, non-verbal, listening)
2. Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and demonstrate flexibility through prioritization.
3. Must be highly organized with strong attention to detail.
4. Ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines.
5. Familiarity with legal software
6. Demonstrated commitment to Public Defense experience working with underserved populations (houselessness, addiction, disability, mental health, etc.)
Who we are.
The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is an agency governed by a 13-member commission appointed by the Governor, which serves as the governing body for Oregon's public defense system. The Commission provides policy direction and oversight for the administration of the system. The legal services provided by OPDC represent an essential component of Oregon's public safety system.
OPDC's mission is to ensure constitutionally competent and effective legal representation for persons eligible for a public defender. Its office includes the Executive, Appellate, Trial, Trial Development & Resources, and Administrative Services Divisions.
OPDC negotiates contracts with trial level public defense providers and administers and distributes funds for representation and related services for cases during the biennium for criminal, juvenile, and civil commitment cases. The Agency provides compliance and oversight to the trial community providers through quality assurance practices, training, and education. Financial Services processes all expenses related to representation in public defense cases. The Appellate Division provides direct legal representation in the state appellate courts in criminal cases, juvenile dependency and termination of parental rights cases, and parole cases. Other services in the Agency include, Data Collection and Analysis, General Counsel, Human Resources, Information Technology Services, Internal Audit, and Policy Development.
Recruitment Timeline
*These dates are approximate and may change. *
Recruitment Closes: Thursday, April 30, 2026 @ 11:59P
Recruiter Screening for Minimum Qualifications: On-going
Hiring Manager Screening for Desired Attributes: On-going
Interviews: On-going
Veterans Preference
Eligible veterans who meet the qualifications will be given veterans' preference. If you checked that you are a veteran, be sure to submit your documentation prior to the close date of this posting. For more information, please go to the State website:
OPDC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and is strongly committed to enhancing the diversity of its workforce. Assistance will be provided in the recruitment, application, and selection process to applicants with disabilities who request such assistance. Please call (503) ###-#### as early as possible regarding any assistance you may require.