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04/30/2026

Assistant Public Defender

Lake County Public Defender

Two Misdemeanor Attorney Positions Available.

Job responsibilities include representing indigent clients in misdemeanor criminal cases at all stages of the criminal process, including arraignments, discovery, motion hearings, pleas, trials, sentencings and post-sentencing hearings; conducting client interviews and gather relevant information for case preparation; reviewing discovery and conducting investigations in conjunction with staff investigator; researching and analyzing legal issues related to assigned cases; drafting legal documents for court filings; negotiating plea agreements with prosecutors when appropriate; advocating for clients' rights and best interests throughout the legal process; and working collaboratively with other members of the defense team, including investigators, paralegals, social workers, law clerks and legal interns.

Experience and Skills: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school; licensed to practice law in Ohio; strong written and verbal communication skills; legal research, writing and oral advocacy skills; ability to work independently and manage a caseload effectively; commitment to providing quality legal representation to underprivileged individuals; knowledge of criminal law and procedures, evidence and professional responsibility and ethics; and excellent judgment and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate and work effectively with clients, office personnel, court personnel, prosecutors, law enforcement, probation officers, social workers and the general public.

Pay: The salary varies depending upon the number of years of experience as a criminal defense attorney, but the minimum starting salary is $75,000.

Work Hours: Normally 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday, but longer hours may be required with evening or weekend work depending upon status of cases.

Benefits: Retirement through Ohio Public Employees Retirement System; Health Insurance (includes medical, dental and eye); Employee Assistance Program; Life Insurance, Paid Time Off via Vacation, Sick, Personal Days and Federal and State Holidays, Continuing Education Credits; and Loan Forgiveness.

Please send cover letter and resume to vanessa.clapp@lakecountyohio.gov

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