The Commission on Legal Counsel for Indigents is seeking to hire a full-time attorney public defender based in Bismarck, North Dakota. The position involves representing indigent clients in judicial proceedings within the South-Central Judicial District and handling appeals before the North Dakota Supreme Court. Travel to all counties in the district and providing conflict services in other jurisdictions will be required.
The agency emphasizes a vertical representation structure, meaning attorneys manage cases from initial appearance through trial. The Bismarck Public Defender Office consists of a supervising attorney, four staff attorneys, two administrative assistants, and one temporary administrative assistant.
According to the job announcement, “Far and away the best prize life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.” The statement reflects Team North Dakota’s approach to public service.
Responsibilities include representing clients effectively and ethically, staying current with statutory and case law, maintaining licensure and continuing legal education credits, and assisting with agency training programs as needed.
Applicants must have a Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school and be eligible for licensure in North Dakota. Effective communication skills and analytical abilities are also required. Applications are accepted from those eligible for licensure but not currently licensed in the state.
The State of North Dakota offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes fully paid family health insurance, retirement plans, annual and sick leave, voluntary insurance options, and flexible work schedules. More information about total rewards can be found using their Total Rewards Calculator.
Applications require submission of a resume, cover letter, and three professional references. Assistance or accommodation during the application process is available by contacting the Jamestown Administrative Office at 701-845-8632.
The State of North Dakota states its commitment to equal employment opportunity: “The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.”
Additionally, smoking is prohibited in all state employment locations according to N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.
Further details about this job posting can be found at https://www.cnd.nd.gov/psc/recruit/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&SiteId=11000&FOCUS=Applicant&JobOpeningId=3032200&PostingSeq=1
