Deputy/Senior Deputy Public Defender
Salary
$3,780.00 - $4,376.00 Biweekly
Location
415 N. Dakota Ave Sioux Falls, SD
Job Type
Full Time
Job Number
26-54
Department
Public Defender
Division
Public Defender
Opening Date
07/07/2026
Why Join Our Team
The Minnehaha County Public Defenders Office is looking for a dedicated Deputy/Senior Deputy Public Defender with excellent advocacy skills who is committed to ensuring justice to indigent clients appearing in the criminal and juvenile justice system. We are currently seeking an applicant who is interested in becoming part of an experienced litigation team that has a high capacity for trials and offers an expansive opportunity for courtroom practice. Apply now to be considered for this opportunity to grow your criminal defense practice, access our expansive document library, and surround yourself with skilled criminal defense attorneys.
A comprehensive benefits package includes paid holidays; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous PTO program; extended sick leave program; inclusion in the South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS); and a deferred compensation plan!
This posting will remain open until filled. Review of applications begins on July 21st, 2026.
The hiring range is $3,780.00 to $4,376.00/biweekly.
How You Will Make an Impact
What You Need to Succeed in this Role
Graduation from a college of law and attainment of a Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school. Admission by the Supreme Court of South Dakota to practice law in the State of South Dakota; be licensed to practice law in any other state and able to take the next bar examination offered in South Dakota; or be a recent law school graduate, eligible to sit for the next available South Dakota bar examination. Comparable combination of education and experience may be considered. Possession of a valid driver's license and must maintain a safe driving record with Minnehaha County. Must successfully complete pre-employment background process.
Working knowledge of civil and criminal law, court procedures, and the principles and practices of legal research. Ability to work with a diverse population and be attentive to the needs of the clientele. Working knowledge of principles, methods, materials, and practices utilized in legal research. Working knowledge of general law and established precedents. Effective verbal and written communication in the preparation and presentation of legal matters in hearings, courts of law, and meetings with others. Ability to work independently within general policy guidelines and legal parameters. Knowledge of and skill in using technology and related software systems. Ability to build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with colleagues, other agencies, clients, and the public. Present a professional appearance and communicate with others in a respectful and approachable way.
Consideration for appointment as a Senior Deputy Public Defender requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience.
EEO Statement
Minnehaha County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, sex or gender including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran's status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by contacting Human Resources at (605) 367-4337.
Insurance
Health/Prescription - Minnehaha Countys health benefit plan offers low deductibles with two network options for coverage: Avera or Sanford. The county pays for 75% of the premium rates. Pharmacy benefits included.
Dental - Minnehaha County offers dental insurance through Delta Dental which covers 100% of diagnostic and preventative services.
Life Insurance - Minnehaha County provides a $15,000 basic life insurance policy for every full-time employee along with and additional $15,000 accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) benefit. Additional term life insurance and AD&D may be purchased by employees for themselves and dependents through payroll deduction.
Retirement
Retirement Plan - Minnehaha County participates in the South Dakota Retirement System. Employees receive a 6% match (8% for certified law enforcement). Other SDRS benefits include long term disability. Employees are vested after 3 years of continuous employment.
Deferred Compensation Plan - Employees may choose to save additional funds toward retirement on a pre-tax or after-tax (Roth IRA) basis through our supplemental retirement program.
Paid Time Off
Paid Time Off - approximately 128 hours (16 days) per year
Holiday Leave - 11 days per calendar year
Extended Sick Leave - approximately 48 hours (6 days) per year
Flexible Spending Plan
Flexible Spending Reimbursement Accounts (FSA) - Minnehaha County offers FSA for Health Care and Dependent Care. This is a great way to put money aside for health and dependent care costs on a pre-tax basis.
Eye Med Vision Policy
Eye Med Insight Network - Minnehaha County offers a vision plan for employees and dependents! The plan offers low premiums with a frame or lens allowance of up to $130 per year and an annual eye exam. Chose from many participating retailers such as Pearle Vision, Target Optical, LensCrafters and many others!
01
Are you currently licensed to practice law in the State of South Dakota?
02
Please indicate the level of your criminal defense experience:
03
Have you ever been subject to formal, public discipline, or are you currently under investigation for misconduct, by any attorney regulation commission, state bar or court?
04
If yes, please explain:
05
Where did you hear about this job opportunity?
Required Question
Employer Minnehaha County
Address 415 N Dakota Avenue
Sioux Falls, South Dakota, 57104
Phone 605-367-4337
Website http://jobs.minnehahacounty.gov