WHARTON AND MATAGORDA COUNTIES REGIONAL PUBLIC DEFENDER OFFICE
The newly created Wharton-Matagorda Regional Public Defender Office is seeking attorneys who wish to be a Public Defender, to represent those that lack the resources to hire legal counsel in Wharton and Matagorda Counties. (There are currently 2 spots available and all levels of experience needed) The Public Defender will assist persons facing felony and misdemeanor
criminal charges. The position begins on November 2, 2026 in Wharton Texas. Applicants must be willing and able to come into an office and the courtroom daily. These positions are not remote. The office is located at 110 E. Burleson, Wharton TX 77488. It will require travel weekly to Matagorda County which is only a twenty-minute drive. Compensation includes salary in the range of $88,500- $110,000 per annum, plus benefits of employment with Wharton County including health care and retirement. Salary could be negotiable based on level of prior work experience especially as a Public Defender or in Criminal Defense. This position provides a full range of legal services to indigent defendants in the assigned felony and misdemeanor cases. Primary responsibility to handle the felony and or misdemeanor case
load. Additional responsibilities to assist in misdemeanor caseload, trial preparation and trials, as directed.
EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:
Juris Doctor Degree, some level of experience involving criminal representation in state courts. Current active membership in the State Bar of Texas, in good standing. Skilled trial attorney, with a minimum of three criminal felony jury trials above state jail felony taken to verdict as first-chair, and one felony criminal appeal taken to mandate. Valid Texas driver’s license and must have reliable motor vehicle. Must possess the skill and ability to manage a demanding and diverse caseload assigned from the county and district criminal courts. Applicants must send curriculum vitae, cover letter, references, SBOT disciplinary history, completed Wharton County application and authorization for criminal background check to
Overzenia Ojuri at Overzenia.ojuri@co.wharton.tx.us. You may also call and or text Overzenia Ojuri at 281-300-3849 questions regarding Wharton County employment benefits should be directed to Tonya Quinn at Tonya.Quinn@co.wharton.tx.us
**Must be able to pass Background Check, Employment Physical and Drug Screen**
**EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER*