Deputy Public Defender

Job overview

The Deputy Public Defender role is onsite in Aberdeen, South Dakota, in an office and courtroom setting. The stated 2026 salary range is $80,800–$101,000 per year, negotiable based on experience. The Brown County Public Defender’s Office represents people who cannot afford legal representation. The attorney represents clients in criminal, abuse and neglect, juvenile, mental health, and involuntary committal matters. The role contributes to access to legal representation through advocacy across case proceedings and coordination with the office and courts.

What you'll do

• Represent clients in criminal, abuse and neglect, juvenile, mental health, and involuntary committal proceedings
• handle cases through appearances, arraignments, motions hearings, and trials
• coordinate with the Chief Public Defender and staff in providing information to courts and county offices.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

deputy public defender

aberdeen sd

brown county south dakota

public defense

criminal cases

juvenile cases

abuse and neglect cases

mental health cases

south dakota bar

$80,800–$101,000/year

training opportunities

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Employer-paid employee health, dental, and life insurance premiums
• dependent and supplemental insurance options
• South Dakota State Retirement System with 6% employee match for eligible employees
• paid time off
• extended sick leave
• 13 paid holidays.

Why this role

Newly admitted attorneys are considered; South Dakota Bar admission or eligibility to obtain admission required; training opportunities are offered.

About the employer

Brown County South Dakota is hiring for this role. Industry: Legal Counsel and Prosecution. Sector: 92.