The Assistant Public Defender (APD) is a trial lawyer position that supports the appointed chief public defender, playing a crucial role in countering state prosecutions. The APD practices in various forums, including county, municipal, and township courts, offering quality legal representation to defendants unable to afford legal counsel for criminal or civil violations. Additionally, the APD may be assigned to juvenile delinquency and neglect and abuse (NA) cases, serving as a Guardian ad litem (GAL). The position also provides operational/administrative assistance to the department head for recruiting, training, supervising, and evaluating a large volunteer workforce of qualified student interns. While initially under supervision, the lawyer progressively gains independence with experience. As an APD progresses in the department, in addition to the tasks described above, the APD may be assigned to take on administrative duties, train and/or supervise subordinates, take leadership positions, and take on more difficult and/or higher jeopardy cases.
