Senior Assistant Public Defender (Public Defender II)

Senior Assistant Public Defender (PD II) Sedgwick County Public Defender Office, Wichita, KS. The Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services (BIDS) welcomes applications for the position of Senior Assistant Public Defender (PD II) in the Sedgwick County Public Defender Office. The Mission BIDS, through its regional public defender offices, represents adults charged with felonies who cannot hire an attorney. By supporting and elevating public defense statewide, BIDS empowers its team to provide relentless representation and holistic advocacy, focusing on client‑centered outcomes. The agency is redesigning its model to build interdisciplinary, collaborative defenses that leverage community resources to represent the client as a whole. Responsibilities Senior Assistant Public Defenders possess advanced litigation skills, including comprehensive motions practice. They independently handle cases at all severity levels, frequently dealing with complex statutory, procedural, and constitutional issues. They are expected to assume informal leadership roles within the office, support management, mentor junior attorneys and staff, and promote a positive, safe, and supportive office culture. When required by the Chief Public Defender, they may undertake additional responsibilities related to agency-wide initiatives and administrative needs. Salary and Benefits Compensation ranges from $70,000 to $87,579, depending on experience and qualifications. Salary expectations can be discussed with interested applicants. The State of Kansas Employment Benefits Package Includes First day of employment comprehensive coverage under the State Employee Health Plan (SEHP) for medical, prescription drug coverage, dental, and vision. Tax‑advantaged accounts such as a Health Savings Account, Health Reimbursement Account, and Flexible Spending Accounts are also available. Additional voluntary benefits including Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness Insurance. SEHP members and covered family members access the HealthQuest Health Center in Topeka for in‑person and virtual health‑care services. Sick and vacation leave. Work‑life balance programs: paid parental leave, military leave, jury leave, and funeral leave. Paid state holidays. Fitness centers at select locations. Employee discounts through the STAR Program. Retirement and deferred compensation programs. Pre‑Employment Conditions Please be aware that if an offer of employment is made, actual employment is subject to the following conditions: Confirmation of licensure as an active attorney in good standing in the State of Kansas or successful admission to the Kansas Bar prior to the start date. Governor’s salary approval. Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate Required Every applicant, including non‑residents, must submit a valid Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate within ten days of receiving an offer letter. The certificate verifies compliance with Kansas tax laws and must be obtained from the Kansas Department of Revenue’s website. If assistance is needed, contact View phone number on click.appcast.io or email View email address on click.appcast.io. Advertised by Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services. #J-18808-Ljbffr National Legal Aid & Defender Association