Job Description

Requisition No: 877303 

Agency: Justice Administrative Commission

Working Title: PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 15TH CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21011560

 Pay Plan: Pub.DefndrsJAC

Position Number: 21011560 

Salary: $85,000.00 

Posting Closing Date: 08/08/2026 

Total Compensation Estimator 

Assistant Public Defender – Florida Keys (16th Judicial Circuit)

Live and Practice Law in Paradise. Imagine waking up to ocean breezes, turquoise waters, and palm trees then using your legal skills to make a real difference in people’s lives. The Public Defender’s Office for the 16th Judicial Circuit is seeking passionate, dedicated attorneys to join our team in the beautiful Florida Keys.

This is more than a job, it’s a lifestyle. Defend clients in one of the most stunning places on Earth while enjoying island living.

Position Summary

We are hiring Assistant Public Defenders to provide high-quality criminal defense representation to indigent clients in Monroe County. You will handle misdemeanor, felony, and/or juvenile cases in a fast-paced but supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and defend criminal cases, including arraignments, pre-trial hearings, trials, and dispositions.
• Interview clients and witnesses.
• Conduct thorough legal research, draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and memoranda.
• Make critical decisions regarding bail, release, mental competency, and expert witnesses.
• Appear regularly in court and manage a manageable caseload with strong client communication.
• Collaborate with prosecutors, judges, court staff, and the broader legal community.

Why Join Our Team in the Florida Keys?

• Unmatched Quality of Life : Live where others vacation. Enjoy the relaxed island pace, stunning sunsets, and endless outdoor activities.
• Meaningful Impact : Provide access to justice for those who need it most in a close-knit community.
• Professional Growth : Hands-on from day one, mentorship from seasoned attorneys, and opportunities to develop courtroom skills quickly.
• Supportive Environment : Work with a dedicated team that values work-life balance in a beautiful setting.

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting Salary : $85,000 (for entry-level attorneys) and up.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Participation in the Florida Retirement System (FRS).

Qualifications

• Active member in good standing with The Florida Bar (required).
• Strong knowledge of criminal law, procedure, Rules of Evidence, and courtroom practice.
• Ability to manage a caseload while maintaining clear client communication.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships with clients, colleagues, and the court.
• Willingness to reside in the 16th Judicial Circuit (Florida Keys) within a reasonable time of hire.

How to Apply

Submit your resume and cover letter to: Kim Kocis, Administrative Director kkocis@pd16.org

If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS at 1-844-377-1888 on how your current benefits may be affected if you are re-employed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be canceled, suspended, or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.

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