Public Defender

A nationwide search is underway for an experienced legal professional to serve as Public Defender for the County of Santa Barbara. The Public Defender’s Office is committed to providing high-quality legal representation while maintaining strong fiscal accountability, operating with an adopted budget of $26 million and 121 full-time equivalent employees, including investigators, social workers, case managers, and client advocates. Key responsibilities in this leadership role include oversight of the Office of the Public Defender’s full scope of services and activities. Additionally, the Public Defender will be expected to serve as the Liaison to the County Executive Officer and the Board of Supervisors and represent the Office of the Public Defender to other departments (e.g., County’s District Attorney Office and Probation Department), elected officials, interested community groups, members of the media, and outside agencies and organizations, including the Local Bar Association. The Public Defender actively engages in a wide range of collaborative working groups that focus on system improvements, innovative criminal justice initiatives, and whole person care efforts. This role requires strong collaboration skills to effectively advance the mission of both the Department and the County.

Interested candidates should apply immediately by sending a comprehensive resume, a compelling cover letter, and notable accomplishments to apply@ralphandersen.com. Closing date for receipt of interest is Monday, July 20, 2026. References are not required at the time of submittal, and no contact will be made with references or current employers until a mutual interest has been established to ensure the utmost confidentiality. Confidential inquiries welcomed to Ms. Heather Renschler at (916) 630-4900. Alternatively, a confidential discussion can be scheduled with Ms. Renschler by emailing scheduling@ralphandersen.com.

Detailed brochure available at https://ralphandersen.com/jobs/public-defender-county-of-santa-barbara/.

Requires graduation from a recognized accredited law school, or the completion of an equivalent program certified by the California State Bar and 10 years of experience practicing criminal law, 5 years of which have included the management and supervision of professional legal staff. Progressively responsible leadership experience working in a Public Defender’s Office is preferred. The ideal candidate will have already served as a Public Defender or as second-in-command (e.g., Chief Assistant) of a comparable agency. Others with qualifying experience gained at various levels within a robust public defender’s office (e.g., assistant or deputy) may also qualify if well-rounded and combined with a solid, demonstrated career history, and if all other stated qualifications are met.

More specific details on required qualifications may be found in the detailed brochure.