Assistant Public Defender - Walton County, FL

Position Overview

The Office of the Public Defender, First Circuit, located in Walton County, Florida, is actively seeking an Assistant Public Defender attorney to manage misdemeanor and felony caseloads. This role offers a starting salary of $74,000 annually, with potential increases depending on experience, and is an immediate hire opportunity.

Location and Lifestyle

Based in DeFuniak Springs, described by MSN Insider as the best small town in Florida, this position offers access to the beautiful beaches along 30A, recognized by HGTV as some of the top beaches in the state. Outdoor activities include gulf water fishing, canoeing, camping in state parks, and more, providing a desirable work-life balance in a location with affordable living and housing costs.

Work Environment and Benefits

The office promotes a supportive and positive workplace where attorneys are challenged and supported for professional growth. Attorneys manage reasonable caseloads with professional independence supported by experienced administration and senior attorneys, allowing for a balanced personal and professional life.

Benefits include membership to the Florida Public Defender Association (FPDA), paid travel for continuing education seminars with CLE credits, participation in the State retirement system, and insurance coverage for health, life, and disability.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide legal representation to accused individuals unable to afford private counsel, appointed by the court.
• Manage trial preparations including case law research, strategy development, cross-examination, jury and witness selection, and courtroom arguments.
• Serve as trial counsel during courtroom proceedings.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Preference given to members in good standing with The Florida Bar.
• Adherence to a harassment-free workplace policy, maintaining honesty, confidentiality, and professional conduct.
• Compliance with confidentiality standards for all software and workplace procedures.
• Willingness to undergo reasonable suspicion drug testing according to the Drug-Free Workplace Act.
• Notify agency hiring authority or People First Service Center if accommodation is required under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• Florida Retirement System (FRS) retirees should consult about impacts on current benefits prior to re-employment.

Additional Information

The Public Defender's Office is committed to protecting constitutional rights in accordance with landmark Supreme Court decisions such as Gideon v. Wainwright.

Applicants must submit their resume via the online People First system by June 30, 2026.