The Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy (“DPA”) invites third-year law students who are looking to change the world to apply to attend the inaugural 2023 Defender Career Fest to be held on two occasions, Saturday, September 23 and Saturday, October 7.
For those selected to attend the Career Fest, DPA will cover the costs of travel, hotel, and meals. To apply, interested students simply fill out the application linked below and upload their resume and a brief cover letter describing their interest in public defender work.
The Department of Public Advocacy is the Kentucky statewide public defender system with offices spanning from the beautiful Appalachian Mountains to the scenic lakes of southern Kentucky to the farmlands of Western Kentucky to the urban areas of Louisville, Lexington, and Covington (Cincinnati). DPA includes trial, appellate, post-conviction, capital, and juvenile opportunities. We are currently making early offers to 3L students who wish to join the fight for justice and freedom in Kentucky in 2024.
We would also love to hear from recent grads who are still looking for a career!
Why be a Kentucky Public Defender:
- Courtroom experience from Day 1
- Mentorship Program
- Holistic approach to representation
- Statewide Agency
- State Employee Benefits
- Inclusive and Diverse Workforce
- Low Cost of Living
- 150 hours of nationally recognized public defender training and education
- Daily opportunities to make a difference for those who need you
Kentucky participates in the Uniform Bar Examination and allows practice as a public defender with an out-of-state license, so interested 3Ls do not have to commit to taking the Kentucky exam.
The DPA offers a unique experience to fight against injustice for clients who are truly in need in a culture where everyone matters. Because Kentucky is a statewide system, we also offer exceptional growth opportunities including immediate trial experience and exposure to the most serious of offenses and penalties.
Please reach out to our recruiter patti.heying@ky.gov for additional information.
Apply at: bit.ly/DPAJobs2023 Priority deadline is August 15th.