Assistant Public Defender III

Full-time

No

Assistant Public Defender III
Labor Relations Attorney
OPEN UNTIL FILLED
The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (OPD) seeks an Assistant Public Defender to join our team as a Labor Relations Attorney to represent agency management at settlement conferences and administrative hearings concerning grievance disputes, disciplinary actions, and EEO/ADA proceedings. The Agency’s vision is for Justice, Fairness, and Dignity for All. Employees are committed to the core values of a culture of excellence, client-centered representation, tenacious advocacy, and are united as a team in achieving the Agency’s mission. Learn more about our mission and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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Overview of the Position

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender is a statewide agency that provides superior representation to indigent clients at all stages of the criminal case including trial, appeal, and eligible post-conviction proceedings. Representation is provided through offices and services at 52 locations statewide with a workforce of approximately 1000 employees. The Labor Relations Attorney will serve as the subject matter expert in Employee/Labor Relations matters, represent agency management at settlement conferences and administrative hearings, consult with Human Resources and Labor Relations staff on grievance and disciplinary matters, and provide guidance to OPD management. The individual selected will also be responsible for preparing settlement agreements, reviewing and analyzing MOU’s, providing recommendations to the Chief Human Resources Officer and Public Defender in Employee/Labor Relations matters, and reviewing OPD policies, procedures and employee handbooks for legal sufficiency.



Primary Duties & Responsibilities

Representing agency management at settlement conferences, grievance proceedings, and administrative hearings.

Preparation of settlement agreements.

Consults with Human Resources and Labor Relations staff.

Serves as the subject matter expert in Employee/Labor Relations matters.

Provide recommendations to the Chief Human Resources Officer and Public Defender in Employee/Labor Relations matters.

Provide recommendations to the EEO Officer/ADA Coordinator.

Ability to collaborate well with all levels of employees and management.

Performs other duties as assigned by the Public Defender.



Training & Qualifications

Five years of employment law/labor relations experience.

Experience representing management at settlement conferences and administrative hearings.

Experience working with Unions/MOU’s.

Experience managing statutory timelines.

Ability to create and maintain strong relationships with management and human resources.

Excellent writing and computer skills.

Exceptional organizational and time-management skills.

Experience successfully working in a deadline-driven environment.

Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Active membership in good standing in the Maryland State and Federal Bar

Legal