Assistant Public Defender (Levels I-III)
Crossroads Defenders (CxD)
Victoria County, TX
Pay: $75,000 – $115,000+ Depending on Experience
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Assistant Public Defender I: 3L/Grad-2 yrs
Assistant Public Defender II: 2 yrs+
Assistant Public Defender III: 5 yrs+
Effective Date: Until Filled
Apply: Email Resume and Cover Letter to bw@cxdtx.org
About Crossroads Defenders
Crossroads Defenders (CxD) is a new, holistic public defender’s office serving Victoria, Jackson, Lavaca, and Refugio Counties in Texas. We represent indigent clients in criminal cases from juvenile offenses to non-capital felonies, aiming to be a model for rural defense. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, training, and techniques, we deliver strong advocacy while providing wrap-around services for employment, mental health, substance abuse, housing, and immigration needs. Join a collaborative team of attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff dedicated to client-centered justice in underserved communities.
About Victoria, Texas
Nestled in the Texas Coastal Bend, Victoria blends big-city amenities with small-town charm. Enjoy rich history, outdoor recreation, arts, diverse cuisine, a strong economy (healthcare, education, manufacturing), affordable housing, and top-rated schools. Just two hours from Houston, Austin, and San Antonio, it’s the ideal crossroads for a high quality of life.
Job Summary
We seek passionate attorneys at all experience levels—from recent law grads/3Ls to seasoned trial lawyers—to provide high-quality representation to indigent clients. Handle misdemeanors, juveniles, and felonies; conduct investigations; develop strategies; advocate in court (hearings, trials, sentencings); draft motions; negotiate pleas; and collaborate on holistic defenses. Senior roles include mentoring juniors and complex case leadership. Thrive in a fast-paced environment committed to constitutional rights and community impact.
Essential Duties
Manage diverse caseloads, from misdemeanors/juveniles to serious felonies.
Investigate cases, research law, and build defense strategies.
Advocate zealously in court, including jury/bench trials and mental health dockets.
Collaborate with team for client-centered support.
Mentor staff (senior levels), engage in outreach, and contribute to office policies.
Maintain ethics, confidentiality, and professional development.
Perform other duties as assigned.
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Qualifications
J.D. from an accredited law school.
Licensed to practice in Texas (or eligible/awaiting bar results).Valid Texas driver’s license and reliable vehicle.
Experience: Entry-level (<1 year) to extensive (5+ years) in criminal defense; trial skills preferred.
Skills: Familiarity with Texas criminal law; proficient in legal research, drafting, technology (Microsoft Office, etc.); strong communication; ability to work with diverse/incarcerated populations.
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Benefits
Competitive salary plus Victoria County perks: low-cost health/dental/vision insurance, prescription/FSA options, Texas County Retirement System (7% return, 200% match, lifetime benefit), tuition assistance, gym discounts, optional life/AD&D/disability policies.
Victoria County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates who can deliver results for our clients.