Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Kalamazoo, MI

Government

Kalamazoo, MI

Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Kalamazoo, MI

Attorney

No

Assistant Public Defender III - Providing Holistic Legal Representation for the Indigent Community
**Members Only** - Non-Profit Organization in Kalamazoo County
Salary Range: $103,500 – $111,650
Full-Time Position with Comprehensive Benefits Package
**Members Only**, a non-profit organization, is looking for an experienced and passionate Assistant Public Defender III to join their team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in felony litigation and a deep commitment to serving the indigent community. This role offers the opportunity to work with a dedicated team of professionals and make a real difference in the lives of those facing systemic barriers within the criminal justice system.

Job Responsibilities:
- Provide legal representation for indigent clients in Kalamazoo County courts, with a focus on high severity felony cases
- Adhere to MIDC Standards of Compliance and engage in continuing legal education
- Meet with clients promptly, identifying their goals and special needs, and making referrals to Village services when appropriate
- Review charging instruments, police reports, and other discovery materials to develop case strategies
- Identify areas of the case that need further investigation and coordinate with the Chief Defender to employ investigators or experts
- Research legal issues and litigate as necessary
- Negotiate with the prosecution and communicate developments with clients
- Prepare for and litigate cases in trial, handling all legal issues that arise
- Maintain availability to other staff members for consultation and education, participate in training programs, and maintain current knowledge of appropriate support functions
- Maintain accurate, complete, and well-organized electronic case files
- Participate in, administer, or supervise legal clinics held in community forums
- Mentor less experienced Assistant Public Defenders
- Maintain open communication with all members of the defense team, including Paralegals, Client Navigators, Mitigation Specialists, Investigators, and Reception
- Embrace a holistic, client-centered approach for criminal defense
- Demonstrate a commitment to indigent defense
- Perform any other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall effectiveness and success of the defense team

Qualifications:
- Juris Doctorate, licensed to practice law and in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan, or ability to waive in, is required
- Two full years of criminal practice, with at least four criminal trials - a minimum of one as primary counsel, is required
- Experience in a public defender office is strongly preferred
- Strong references and an exemplary legal track record are strongly preferred
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
- Familiarity with the communities from which our clients come
- Strong commitment to **Members Only**'s mission and values
- Commitment to professionalism, confidentiality, compassion, and integrity
- Skill in working with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds
- Ability to prioritize work tasks while working both collaboratively and independently
- Demonstrate cultural awareness and a commitment to working in an anti-racist workplace

Benefits:
- Health care coverage including medical, dental, and vision, with employee premiums covered at 100%
- Retirement program offering both 403B and Roth options with employer match of times employee contributions up to 5%
- Five weeks of paid time off (pro-rated for start date), paid holiday closures, and additional paid parental leave program
- Robust employee assistance program that includes services for all household members
- Optional Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
- An opportunity to work with like-minded, mission-driven individuals in a dynamic and innovative holistic legal program, backed by a county capable of maximizing **Members Only**'s mission

How to Apply:
If you have a Juris Doctorate, are licensed to practice law in Michigan, and have a passion for serving the indigent community, please send your resume and cover letter to or to the following address:
**Members Only**
Attn: Human Resources
151 S Rose St - Ste 300
Kalamazoo, MI 49007

Join our team at **Members Only** and make a difference in the lives of those facing systemic barriers within the criminal justice system. We prioritize love, compassion, and equity in our work and are seeking a dedicated Assistant Public Defender III to provide holistic legal representation for the indigent community. Apply now and be a part of our mission to fight for our clients in court and organize care for them in our community.