3Ls: Assistant Public Defender opening in Cookeville, TN
Assistant Public Defender (Cookeville, TN)
The 13th Judicial District Public Defender’s Office is dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation to indigent criminal defendants in General Sessions and Criminal Court. We are currently seeking a passionate individual to join our team as an Assistant Public Defender. If you are committed to defending the voiceless, we invite you to apply. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to function as a criminal litigator with minimal guidance while working effectively as part of a team in a highly demanding environment.
We welcome applications from newly licensed attorneys, those awaiting bar results as well as those graduating in December 2025 or May 2026. Our office is committed to supporting early-career lawyers through hands-on mentorship, professional development, and a collaborative team environment. You will receive guidance from experienced public defenders as you grow into your role and develop your litigation skills.
About the Office:
Located in Cookeville, Tennessee, the 13th Judicial District includes Clay, Cumberland, DeKalb, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, and White Counties, serving a population of 213,531 residents, with 19.6% living below the poverty level. Cookeville, situated 70 miles east of Nashville and 100 miles west of Knoxville, offers vibrant cultural and recreational opportunities.
Position Requirements:
· Valid Tennessee law license or eligibility to take the July 2025 or February 2026 bar exam.
· Willingness to learn and grow as a litigator, including receiving mentorship and training.
· Superior oral and written communication skills.
· Strong research and interpersonal skills.
· Excellent judgment, communication, and courtroom skills.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
· Ability to work cooperatively in a supportive, professional environment and flexibly accommodate extra hours or days as necessary.
· Capacity to make timely and effective decisions under pressure.
· History of working collaboratively with other attorneys, support staff, and client agencies.
· No prior or pending disciplinary actions with the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility.
Salary and Benefits:
This is a full-time position with a salary range of $69,000 to $180,000 annually, based on legal experience. Health insurance and retirement benefits are provided.
Application Process:
To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and writing sample to:
Craig Fickling District Public Defender 230 North Washington Ave Cookeville, Tennessee 38501 Email: craig.fickling@tn.gov
You can also apply via Symplicity Post 8940.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Pursuant to the State of Tennessee’s policy of non-discrimination, the Office of the District Public Defender for the 13th Judicial District is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Except where otherwise provided by law, there will be no discrimination based on color, race, religion, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability (physical or mental), age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, parental status, membership or non-membership in an employee organization, personal favoritism, or any other non-merit factor.
This agency provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the agency. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.
