3Ls & Recent Grads: Apply to be a KY PD
The KY Department of Public Advocacy, the statewide public defender system in Kentucky, is making early employment offers to 3L and 4P students at our in-person Career Fest on September 12th and October 24th. Apply today at Kentucky Defender Career Fest | Fall of 2026. The priority deadline is August 14, 2026. We look forward to telling you more about the KY DPA.
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 link and email their resume and a brief cover letter describing their interest in public defender work to dpacareers@ky.gov.
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.
We would also love to hear from recent grads who are still looking for a career and those who graduate in the winter!
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
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 at dpacareers@ky.gov for additional information.
Apply at: Kentucky Defender Career Fest | Fall of 2026
Priority Deadline is August 14th.
Note from the Career Services Office: This employer has hired several Memphis Law grads in the past and Memphis law students who have attended the DPA Career Fest have enjoyed it.
