Client: Franklin County, Ohio
Franklin County Public Defender Commission
(Columbus, Ohio)
Position: Public Defender
Closing Date: Closed
Additional Information:
Franklin County, Ohio is conducting an extensive state-wide and open recruitment to attract highly qualified individuals interested in leading this critically important county function as the new Public Defender. The Franklin County Public Defender’s Office is comprised of Municipal, Juvenile, Common Pleas, Appellate departments, and an Investigation Unit headed by the Chief Investigator. There are 91 attorneys, 12 social workers, and various support staff totaling 156.25 FTEs. The 2024 approved budget for the Office of Public Defender is $17.6 million. Key responsibilities of the Public Defender include oversight of the Office of the Public Defender’s services and activities, including the provision of mandated legal counseling and defense services to eligible persons. The Public Defender represents the Office of the Public Defender to other departments (i.e., County’s District Attorney Office, Probation Department), elected officials, interested community groups, and the Local Bar Association.
This position requires a Juris Doctorate and extensive professional legal experience with emphasis upon the preparation and trial of felony cases, including oversight of other legal staff. Budgetary and administrative experience overseeing a legal office, unit, or department in the public sector is highly desirable. Active license in good standing with the Supreme Court of Ohio is required at time of submittal and appointment. This position requires compliance with State of Ohio Law Section 120.15 County Public Defender Revised Code: This position requires an attorney with a minimum of two years of experience in the practice of law and admitted to the practice of law in Ohio at least one year prior to appointment.
The anticipated annual salary will be $165,000+ DOQE. Franklin County also offers a full benefits package, including OPERS Retirement.
In accordance with Ohio law, all applications and résumés for public positions are a matter of public record and may be disclosed to the media or public upon proper request. Serious candidates are strongly encouraged to discuss their interest with the Search Firm, Ralph Andersen & Associates, in advance of submitting their qualifications to ensure appropriate experience and the desire to proceed. Candidates are encouraged to call Ralph Andersen & Associates at (916) 630-4900 to schedule a confidential telephone appointment with Heather Renschler, Project Director, to discuss this career opportunity.
