Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Saint Louis, MO

Government

Saint Louis, MO

Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Saint Louis, MO

Attorney

No

Job Title
Attorney - St. Louis County

Job Responsibilities
As a Public Defender Trial Attorney with the Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD), you will play a vital role in ensuring that clients accused of or convicted of crimes in Missouri receive high-quality legal representation. Your responsibilities will include:

- Client Advocacy: Develop and maintain professional relationships with clients, providing comprehensive legal counsel and guidance through all stages of their case.
- Case Investigation: Conduct thorough investigations, including interviews with clients, witnesses, expert witnesses, and family members. Review law enforcement reports and discovery materials to build a solid defense strategy.
- Communication and Transparency: Keep clients informed about the progress of their case, ensuring open and transparent communication.
- Court Appearances: Attend regularly scheduled court dockets and all appearances related to the assigned caseload, effectively litigating all aspects of each client's case at the trial court level.
- Legal Research and Document Preparation: Conduct legal research and prepare legal documents, including motions, pleadings, and briefs for hearings, trials, and legal proceedings.
- Trial Preparation: Prepare cases, clients, and witnesses for trial, ensuring a comprehensive and strategic approach.
- Client Interests and Holistic Approach: Promote and protect the best interests of clients, incorporating a holistic approach to legal representation.
- Collaboration: Collaborate with colleagues and support staff to provide comprehensive legal services, fostering a team-oriented approach.
- Continuing Legal Education (CLE): Attend CLE sessions to stay updated on legal developments and enhance professional skills.

Education and Experience Information
- Licensed to practice law in the State of Missouri, awaiting bar results, or transferring a bar license from a different state.
- Passion for criminal defense and commitment to justice for indigent clients.
- Strong communication and advocacy skills.
- Ability to manage a diverse caseload with efficiency and attention to detail.
- Willingness to work in varied settings and adapt as necessary.
- Collaborative spirit to work effectively with support staff and legal team members.
- Openness to continuous learning and participation in training programs.

Salary Information
This full-time position offers competitive compensation, with a salary range of $61,920 to $90,192 per year. Additionally, the position includes State of Missouri benefits such as a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage.

Additional Information
The Missouri Public Defender System is dedicated to providing legal representation to citizens who cannot afford an attorney. With a team of approximately 700 professionals, including over 400 attorneys, MSPD operates statewide through district offices, offering opportunities to work in diverse settings, from urban areas like Kansas City and St. Louis to more rural environments. Training is a top priority, with continuous professional development and nationally recognized trial skills courses available to equip public defenders for their commitment to justice.

The State of Missouri is an equal opportunity employer committed to developing and maintaining a talented workforce.

For more information about benefits, you can visit the provided URL for the Missouri Public Defender System's employment benefits page and the State of Missouri's Total Compensation Calculator.