Entry Level Attorney District II

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) has openings for entry level zealous litigators to serve as Assistant Public Defenders in our Lower Eastern Shore area which serves Wicomico Worcester Dorchester and Somerset Counties.The attorney in thisposition will combine their demonstratedcommitment with their strong andzealous litigation skills to provide exceptional representationon behalfof their clients. We are committed to building a culturally diverse staff andstronglyencourage people historically underrepresented in the practice oflaw to apply.

At MOPD we use our legal education and experience to fight for justiceand fairness no matterwhat and we refuse to remain silent in the midstof human suffering. Our unique talents identities educational backgroundsand perspectives guide us in representing our clients. We stand up againstprejudice systemic racism and inequity in all of the spaces we occupy. MOPDseeks candidates who will join us in providing compassionate competentzealous and client-centered representation to all of our clients. Learn moreabout our mission and commitment to diversity equity and inclusion.

ASTD20

201 Baptist MD

310 Gay StreetCambridge

OVERVIEWOF THEPOSITION:

Thepositionis ideal for an entry level attorney seeking to gaincriminaltrial experience in a fast are seekingcandidates who are innovative and creative

thinkersandhavetheability to work independently in managing an active case load ofdistrictcourt andother specialty cases such as juvenile civilnon-support and violations of probation. Attorneys work in conjunction with socialworkers investigators experts and core staff in a team-oriented must be able to balance a client-centered approach to representationwith advocacy to address systemic inequity and the collateral consequences thatlead to deeper system candidatesshould beavailable to start within one month after receiving an offer.

PRIMARYRESPONSIBILITIES:

Representclients in all stages of their criminal case including bail hearings motionshearings trial and post-trial hearings.

Ensureclients are consistently heard and respected.

Conductslegal research and analysis including changes in laws legislation proceduralrules court decisions and case precedents in preparation for trial and todetermine/ anticipate legal problems and propose resolutions.

Drafts andprepares reports memoranda in opposition briefs motions and correspondencefor clients.

Effectivelyand compassionately communicate with clients team members colleagues andservice providers to ensure optimal outcomes for clients.

Counseland advises clients on changes in law court decisions and legal issues.

Negotiateswith prosecutors judges and other stakeholders to establish agreements toresolve cases favorably for the client.

Competentlyindependently and resourcefully manage a full caseload.

Continuouslyseek professional development by attending various training sessions.

Otherduties as assigned by the DistrictPublic Defender.

CORECOMPETENCIESANDREQUIREMENTS:

Demonstrated commitment to servingcommunities who have been pushed to the margins.

Excellent research writing and oraladvocacy skills.

Clear dedication to upending systemic racismprejudice and unfairness in the criminal legal system.

Strong interpersonal skills and the abilityto communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds and livedexperiences.

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced diverseteam-oriented environment.

Exceptional organizational legal andadministrative skills necessary to handle a high caseload.

Active membership in good standing in theMaryland Bar or Bar of another state.

Attorneys barred in another state must becomemembers of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of their start date with MOPD.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary is dependent on experience and salary ruleswill apply to State of Maryland employees.

This would be a lateral transfer for any internalcandidates applying.

Assistant Public Defender I starting at $87620.00 (Grade 20: Step 06)

Please visit the State of Maryland Employeespagetoreview benefit information.

How to Apply:

If you wish to be considered pleaseclickhereto fill out the application and upload the following documentsinone PDF attachmentthrough the Resume Tab of the MarylandState Government Job Openings: (1) a current resume (2) a cover letter (3) alist of four professional references and (4) a writing sample no longer thanfifteen (15) pages.

Incomplete applications will not beconsidered.

Assistant Public Defenders are full-time employeesand cannot engage in the private practice of law while in this position. MDCode Criminal Procedure Art. Section 16-203(d)(2).

As a State agency the Maryland Office of the PublicDefender (MOPD) is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. MOPDis committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals without regardto race color religion sex physical or mental disability age sexualorientation gender identity national origin veteran status or geneticinformation.

All applicants must be able to communicate withclients and visitors and possess the ability to complete tasks in a fast-pacedwork environment. Applicants must be able to work in various positions andtravel to various courtrooms office environments and detention facilitiesthroughout the state. MOPD is further committed to providing equal opportunityand reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employmentits services programs and activities by modifying or adjusting the job applicationprocess or the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to theknown applicant or employee to enable the applicant or employee be consideredfor the position they desire; to perform the essential functions of theposition in question; or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employmentas are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilitiesunless the accommodation imposes an undue hardship.

Applicants must be able to operate a computer andother office equipment. Applicants must have access to a motor vehicle or beable to navigate public transportation. If a reasonable accommodation isneeded please contact Tawanda Jackson Human Resources Supervisor at or