Employment Opportunities

Defense Attorneys

Open to members in good standing with the California Bar Association. Attorneys are responsible for handling a demanding caseload through all phases of litigation while coordinating the efforts of their support team including Investigators, Paralegals, Legal Assistants, and Experts. Professional development by attending trainings both within and outside the office expected. Attorneys may forward a copy of their professional resume and cover letter at anytime to Executive Assistant Marsha Koop (mkoop@fresnocountyca.gov).

Paid Post-Bar Internships

Paid Post-Bar Internships are offered in the spring and fall. These internships are designed to immerse recent law-school graduates into our criminal justice system. The post-bars receive comprehensive training on representing indigent clients.  The duties include meeting with clients, reviewing discovery, research, and writing, to name a few.  Certified law-students make court appearances which include contested evidentiary hearings. 

To apply, please email your cover letter and resume to Chief Defense Attorney Alan de Ocampo (abdeocampo@fresnocountyca.gov).

Post Bar Job Posting 2024(PDF, 135KB)

Volunteer Legal Internships (law students and undergrad students)

Volunteer Legal Internships are offered throughout the year. These interns perform similar duties as the post-bar interns described above. Volunteer Interns are encouraged to secure funding from their schools or other fellowships. Volunteer Interns are eligible to receive academic credit if an agreement is made between our office and their school.   

To apply, please email your cover letter and resume to Chief Defense Attorney Alan de Ocampo (abdeocampo@fresnocountyca.gov).

Defense Investigators

Investigators independently examine the facts and witnesses in a case. Duties include locating and interviewing witnesses, examination of evidence, preservation and re-creation of crime scenes, and the serving of subpoenas. Investigators confer with the defense team on the preparation and defense of criminal cases, testifying in court as necessary. Open positions are posted on the Human Resources webpage.

Paralegals

Paralegals play an important role in the legal team and work closely with defense attorneys to advocate for our indigent defense clients.  Duties include interviewing witnesses, experts, and clients, researching legal issues, summarizing police reports and other evidence, preparing various legal documents for the defense of the case, and courtroom support.  A Paralegal I receives training, close supervision and direction in the completion of assignments, while a Paralegal II exercises greater independence, latitude of judgement, and more complicated assignments.  Open positions are posted on the Human Resources webpage.   

Support Staff

Non-attorneys interested in employment with the Fresno County Public Defender should contact Human Resources.