Be a part of righting injustice where it matters most. TRGPD fights hard in counties that have never established systems to zealously represent poor people accused of crimes. TRGPD will be the right fit for individuals hungry for change, dedicated to justice, and game for a challenge.

Texas RioGrande Public Defender (TRGPD) serves seven (11) rural Texas counties and indigent defendants charged under Operation Lone Star. Currently, TRGPD has public defender offices in Beeville, and Eagle Pass. Each of these offices provides indigent defense for one or more of the counties near the office locations. TRGPD offices are located near various natural and cultural attractions. They are also within reasonable driving distance from metro areas with international airports. We are frontline advocates who have engaged in the movement to transform the criminal justice system and challenge the injustices faced by indigent defendants in rural south Texas for over a decade. We provide complete, vertical representation from intake to resolution. Except for cases involving a conflict of interest or the death penalty, we represent persons accused of crimes from initial arrest to final appeal. We deliver client-centered services to address unique needs and limited resources available to clients residing in rural and border communities. Special initiatives within the program include advice on the immigration consequences of a criminal conviction, trauma-informed and mental health advocacy, assistance with applying for government aid and/or housing, and assistance with substance abuse as alternative solutions to incarceration. With caseload controls, staff investigators, mental health and substance abuse caseworkers, and a litigation budget, TRGPD is deeply committed to zealous, high-quality representation in rural South Texas. We offer the advantage of having robust staff support with a 2-1 attorney-to-support staff ratio, and the flexibility and willingness to support employee growth.

As an Entry-Level Public Defender, you will be responsible for representing clients in various stages of criminal proceedings. You will interview clients, research case law, draft legal documents, negotiate with prosecutors, and advocate zealously for the rights of your clients in court.

COMPENSATION: Starting salary is $65,000, with an increase to $75,000 upon licensure. TRGPD also offers generous Loan Repayment Assistance for individuals saddled with law school debt.

Qualifications:

Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school
Admission to the Texas State Bar (or pending admission) or eligible for a Supervised Bar Card
Strong passion for public interest law and criminal defense
Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills
Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

This is not an open position with an immediate start date. By submitting your application, you will be considered for future entry-level openings as they become available within our office.

TRGPD is committed to offering fair and equal employment opportunities to all job applicants and employees. We strictly prohibit any form of discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. 

Texas Rio Grande Public Defender remote jobs

Recent Law Graduates - Entry-Level Public Defender

Felony Qualified Public Defender

Paralegal

Staff Public Defender