Public Defender 1 - Appellate

Public Defender 1 - Appellate

Salary

$63,585.60 - $98,633.60 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50321 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

27-01274

Agency

428 Department of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing - Public Defender

Opening Date

11/03/2026

Closing Date

11/17/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-DNP

Point of Contact

Martha Lucey; martha.lucey@spd.state.ia.us

• Description
• Benefits

Job Description

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact through public service? The Iowa State Public Defender's Office is seeking a highly motivated, skilled, and enthusiastic attorney to serve as an Public Defender 1 in our Appellate Defender office located in Des Moines, Iowa.

Who We Are

The mission of the Office of the State Public Defender is to ensure that all indigent persons in Iowa are provided high quality legal representation in criminal, juvenile, and other eligible proceedings in the most efficient and fiscally responsible manner.

What You'll Do

As a Public Defender attorney in this position, you will:

• Receive training and mentoring from experienced and well-respected attorneys with valuable appellate experience.
• Perform entry-level professional legal work representing indigent clients on appeal in cases where the State Appellate Defender's Office has been appointed as counsel.
• Conduct thorough review of the client trial court records and perform extensive legal research to prepare the appeal in assigned cases to determine the merits of the cases and appropriate courses of action.
• Draft appellate briefs, motions for further review, and other motions or documents in support of an appeal.
• Present oral arguments in assigned cases before the Iowa Court of Appeals, the Iowa Supreme Court, and the United States Supreme Court.
• Advise and communicate with clients at all stages of the appeal and respond to clients in a timely manner.
• Other duties as assigned to further support public defender offices may also be required.

This is a non-merit position for the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing - Public Defender.

Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must have graduated from an accredited law school and possess a current license to practice law in the State of Iowa prior to commencing employment in positions in this job classification. Admission to the United States Supreme Court may be required.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description. (Download PDF reader)

What We Offer

When you join the SPD, you become a part of a strong team culture that is committed to serving the community. In addition to providing a respect for work-life balance, we have a competitive total compensation package for all of our full-time employees, including:

• Robust benefits, including excellent health, dental, life and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, paid holidays, and sick leave accrual.
• On the job training by dedicated, experienced professionals.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care.
• Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) Retirement Package.
• Retirement Investors Club (Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan).
• Employee Assistance Program for support when you need it most.
• Employee Discount Programs from a variety of vendors (vision, cellular, fitness, and more)
• Access to an on-site employee fitness center.

For additional information on benefits click here.

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

Embark on a rewarding career dedicated to public service and make a difference with us!

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must have graduated from an accredited law school and possess a current license to practice law in the State of Iowa prior to commencing employment in positions in this job classification.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

Employer State of Iowa

Agency 428 Department of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing - Public Defender Address 6200 Park Avenue; Suite 1

Des Moines, Iowa, 50321

Website https://spd.iowa.gov/