Deputy Public Defender I/II/III/IV

Position Summary

SALARY/STEP INCREASES
3% Annual Across the Board Salary Increases on February 2025/2026
(Salary Increases contingent upon assessed values for previous fiscal year.)

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
Attorneys may have the opportunity to work a flexible 9/80 work schedule.

VICTORVILLE/JOSHUA TREE ASSIGNMENT INCENTIVE
Candidates assigned to the Victorville or Joshua Tree offices may be eligible to
receive an additional incentive of $77 per pay period ($2002 annually).
See Attorney MOU for details and criteria.

The Office of the Public Defender is recruiting for Deputy Public Defenders I. This is an entry level class in the Deputy Public Defender series, offering an exciting learning opportunity for a challenging career in criminal defense work. Deputy Public Defenders I are trained to represent indigent defendants and provide skilled legal counsel and courtroom advocacy at all critical phases of state level criminal and civil commitment litigation.

Public Defenders also conduct legal research, prepare and argue motions, writs, briefs and opinions; interview and counsel clients; participate in developing effective investigation plans for clients; negotiate with opposing counsel; and prepare and conduct trials.

Spanish-English Bilingual Candidates are encouraged to apply and may receive additional compensation for bilingual skills.

For more detailed information, refer to the Deputy Public Defender I job description.

Applications are also being accepted for Deputy Public Defender II/III/IV; a separate application is required.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Assignment: Assignments may be made at any location throughout the County depending on the needs of the department.

Travel: Travel throughout the County is required and employees may be required to make provisions for transportation. At the time of hire, applicants must have a valid California Class C driver license and proof of automobile liability insurance.

Background: Applicants must pass a background investigation, including fingerprinting, prior to appointment.

State Bar: Those hired must be active members in good standing with the State Bar of California. This status must be maintained in order to remain employed in this classification.

Promotion: Deputy Public Defender I positions are eligible for promotion to Deputy Public Defender II, III or IV upon meeting the minimum requirements and receiving a satisfactory work performance evaluation (see MOU for details). Deputy Public Defender IV positions may earn up to $195,665 annually.

Sponsorship: Please note San Bernardino County is not able to consider candidates who will require visa sponsorship at the time of application or in the future.

Duties and Responsibilities
License: Active membership and in good standing with the State Bar of California.

Note: Candidates who have passed the State or California Bar Exam and are pending licensure, OR who have taken the State of California Bar Exam and are awaiting results, or who are registered for the next California State Bar Examination, will be considered. California State Bar Membership must be attained in order to be hired.

Applications are also being accepted for Deputy Public Defender II/III/IV; a separate application is required.

How to Apply
Please apply via this website