Staff Public Defender

Texas RioGrande Public Defender

Staff attorney defender providing essential legal representation in criminal cases for indigent clients. Working in a new public defender office to address due process and immigration issues in Eagle Pass, Texas.

Posted 6/25/2026full-timeEagle Pass • Texas • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $85,000 - $110,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide zealous defense for indigent persons accused of criminal charges ranging from serious level felonies, misdemeanors, and juvenile cases;
Review case facts, examine videos and physical case evidence for legal sufficiency,
Prepare, draft, and review motions and other legal documents that conform to current statutes, legislation, and case law;
Confer with prosecutors, law enforcement, and witnesses regarding any necessary case investigation and trial preparation;
Litigate appointed cases from intake to final resolution, including pretrial, trial, appeals, and additional motion practice, as needed;
Manage confidential legal information and documents;
Participate in the agency, division, and program meetings and training;
Maintain case files and documentation in accordance with agency and division policies;
Follow current trends and innovations in indigent defense;
Provide client-centered, trauma-informed advocacy;
Collaborate with colleagues in their team, program, and division to contribute to a supportive work environment.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Must be committed to advocating for their client.
Must be licensed to practice law in Texas or able to waive into the Texas bar.
Proficiency in Office 365, legal research software, and other case management systems.
Preferred applicants will demonstrate a commitment to indigent defense and criminal justice reform; have worked or interned in a public defender office; are solution-oriented and creative; are able to work efficiently independently and in a team environment; can assess and prioritize multiple tasks and work effectively in high-stress situations; and want to live and work in communities where TRPD clients have the greatest needs.

Benefits

Comp & perks

law school loan repayment
generous paid leave
healthcare insurance
retirement plan
training & travel stipends

ATS Keywords

✓ Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

legal researchmotion draftingcase managementlitigationtrial preparationevidence examinationcase file managementadvocacytrauma-informed care

Soft Skills

client advocacysolution-orientedcreative problem solvingindependent workteam collaborationtask prioritizationhigh-stress performancecommitment to justice reform

Certifications

licensed to practice law in Texas