Assistant Public Defender II & III

Full-time

No

Summary:

- Organization: Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD)
- Job Title: Assistant Public Defender II & III
- Experience: Experienced Attorney
- Multiple Openings Across the State of Maryland
- Recruitment Number: 24-005799-0010
- Department: OPD District Operations
- Filing Deadline: Open/Continuous
- Salary: $93, - $135,
- Employment Type: Full-Time
- HR Analyst: Marie Figueroa Ocasio

Introduction:

- MOPD seeks an experienced and zealous litigator for multiple openings across the State of Maryland
- Commitment to building a culturally diverse staff and encouraging historically underrepresented individuals to apply
- Statewide agency providing superior representation to indigent clients at all stages of the criminal case
- Use legal education and expertise to fight for justice and fairness, standing against prejudice, systemic racism, and inequity
- Mission focuses on Justice, Fairness, and Dignity for All
- Committed to core values of excellence, client-centered representation, and tenacious advocacy
- Learn more about the mission, public defense, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Location and Grade:

- Locations: District 1 (Baltimore City), District 2 (Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, Worcester Counties), District 3 (Caroline, Cecil, Kent, Queen Anne's, and Talbot Counties), District 4 (Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary's Counties), District 5 (Prince George's County), District 6 (Montgomery County), District 7 (Anne Arundel County), District 8 (Baltimore County), District 9 (Harford County), District 10 (Carroll and Howard Counties), District 11 (Frederick and Washington Counties), District 12 (Allegany and Garrett Counties)
- Grade: ASTD 21, ASTD 22

Main Purpose of Job:

- Exceptional trial skills, innovative thinking, investigative skills required
- Ability to work independently and manage active felony caseload
- Work in a team-oriented environment with social workers and core staff
- Balance client-centered approach with advocacy against systemic inequity and collateral consequences
- Represent clients in all stages of criminal case, including bail hearings, motions, trials, and appeals
- Ensure clients are consistently heard and respected
- Conduct legal research and analysis
- Draft legal documents and correspondence
- Communicate effectively with clients, team members, and other stakeholders
- Negotiate for favorable outcomes for clients
- Provide post-representation follow-up
- Manage full caseload
- Seek professional and personal development through training and continuing education

Minimum Qualifications:

- Education: Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited school of law
- Experience: Experience as a practicing Attorney
- Admitted to practice law in the State by the Court of Appeals of Maryland at time of appointment
- Requirements set by MOPD in accordance with Criminal Procedure Article, Section 16-203 of the Annotated Code of Maryland
- . Armed Forces military service experience may be substituted for required experience and education on a year-for-year basis

Selective Qualifications:

- Core Competencies and Requirements:
- Demonstrated commitment to serving marginalized communities
- Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills
- Dedicated to addressing systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in criminal justice system
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with diverse individuals
- Thrive in fast-paced, team-oriented environment
- Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills
- Criminal trial experience required, felony jury trial experience preferred
- Active membership in good standing in Maryland Bar or Bar of another state

Benefits:

- Salary dependent on experience and salary rules apply for State of Maryland employees
- Assistant Public Defender II: $93,, (Grade 21, Step 8-24)
- Assistant Public Defender III: $103,, (Grade 22, Step 10-24)
- Full-time position, cannot engage in private practice of law while employed
- Visit State of Maryland Employee’s page for benefit information

How to Apply:

- Click on link to fill out application and submit required materials
- Incomplete applications will not be considered
- Applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors and complete tasks in fast-paced work environment
- Must be able to work in various positions and travel to various courtrooms and office environments throughout the state
- MOPD committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities
- If reasonable accommodation is needed, contact Tawanda Jackson, Human Resources Supervisor
- Apply via internet or paper application

Conclusion:

- MOPD seeking experienced and zealous litigators for multiple openings across the State of Maryland
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in representation of indigent clients
- Mission focuses on Justice, Fairness, and Dignity for All
- Must have exceptional trial skills, investigative skills, and ability to work independently
- Represent clients in all stages of criminal case, while advocating against systemic inequity and collateral consequences
- Excellent benefits and opportunities for professional and personal development

Not specified

Salary, health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off

Not specified

Zealous advocacy, legal research, writing, oral advocacy, negotiation, client communication, organizational skills

Juris Doctorate degree or equivalent from an accredited school of law

Fill out application, submit resume, cover letter, references, and writing sample (if applicable)

Qualification and Experience Juris Doctorate degree or equivalent from an accredited school of law, admission to practice law in the State of Maryland or another state

Legal