Entry Level Attorney Post Conviction Defenders Division
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Job Location:
Baltimore, MD - USA
Monthly Salary:
Not Disclosed
Posted on:
2 days ago
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Job Summary
Introduction
The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks an entry levelzealous anddedicated attorney to serve as Assistant Public Defender inthe MOPDs Post ConvictionDefenders Division. MOPD is committed tobuilding a culturally diverse staff and stronglyencourages peoplehistorically underrepresented in the practice of law to apply.
The Post Conviction Defenders Division is dedicated to ensuring fairnessin criminal convictionsand protecting the integrity of our criminaljustice system. This division represents indigentinmates atpost-conviction proceedings throughout the state of Maryland. MOPD strivestoachieve Justice Fairness and Dignity for All. Our employees arecommitted to the core valuesof a culture of excellence client-centeredrepresentation and tenacious advocacy and are unitedas a team inachieving the MOPDs mission. Learn more about our mission and commitmenttodiversity equity and inclusion.
GRADE
ASTD20
LOCATION OF POSITION
Baltimore MD
Main Purpose of Job
OVERVIEW OF POSITION
The attorney in this position is responsible for ensuring zealous representation of indigentdefendants in collateral attacks on convictions. The successful candidate will combine theirdemonstrated dedication to the representation of indigent clients with their strong litigation skillsto provide exceptional representation in post conviction and other related proceedings. PostConviction Defenders are expected to work independently in managing active caseloads whilesimultaneously working in a team-oriented environment focused on a client-centered approach to representation. This position requires travel throughout the state of Maryland. However theoffice is located in Baltimore Maryland.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Passionate and zealous representation of clients in post-conviction proceedings including butnot limited to conducting extensive legal research writing persuasive legal briefsinterviewing potential witnesses preparing for hearings conducting effective direct andcross-examinations and negotiating alternative resolutions.
Ability to manage an active hearing schedule and heavy caseload competently andresourcefully.
Represent clients in hearings for motions for modification requests for drug treatment andother similar motions.
Effectively and compassionately communicate with incarcerated clients their familiescolleagues and service providers to ensure optimal outcomes for clients.
Ensure clients are consistently heard and respected.
Continuously seek professional and personal development through training continuing legaleducation trial skills courses and keeping apprised of new and relevant case law.
Other duties as assigned by the State Public Defender.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS
Demonstrated commitment toserving communities who have been pushed to the margins.
Clear dedication to upendingsystemic racism prejudice and unfairness in the criminaljustice system.
Compassion.
Strong interpersonal skillsand ability to communicate effectively with people from differentbackgrounds and experiences.
Excellent research writtenand oral advocacy.
Ability to thrive in afast-paced diverse team-oriented environment.
Exceptional organizationallegal and administrative skills necessary to manage an activeheavy caseload.
Judicial law clerk experienceand/or post-conviction exposure/litigation experience preferred.
Active membership in goodstanding with the State of Maryland Bar or Bar of another state.
BENEFITS
SALARY AND BENEFITS
Salary is dependent on experience and salary rules will apply to State ofMaryland employees.
Assistant Public Defender I- starting at $87620 (Grade 20: Step 6)
Please visit theState of Maryland Employeespage toreview benefit information.
FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS
HOW TO APPLY
If you wish to be considered please click here to fill out theapplication and submit the followingitems in one PDF attachment throughthe Resume Tab: (1) a current resume (2) a cover letteraddressing theabove qualifications (3) a list of four professional references (4) apersuasivewriting sample not a judicial opinion and (5) law schooltranscript (if within 3 years ofgraduation).
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Assistant Public Defenders are full-time employees and cannot engage inthe privatepractice of law while in this position. MD Code CriminalProcedure Art. Section 16-203(d)(2).
As a State agency the Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is anaffirmativeaction and equal opportunity employer. MOPD is committed tothe full inclusion of allqualified individuals without regard to racecolor religion sex physical or mentaldisability age sexualorientation gender identity national origin veteran status orgeneticinformation.
All applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors andpossess the abilityto complete tasks in a fast-paced work must be able to work invarious positions and travel to variouscourtrooms and office environments throughout thestate. MOPD is furthercommitted to providing equal opportunity and reasonableaccommodation forindividuals with disabilities in employment its services programsandactivities by modifying or adjusting the job application process orthe job or workenvironment to make reasonable accommodations to the knownapplicant or employee toenable the applicant or employee be consideredfor the position they desire; to perform theessential functions of theposition in question; or to enjoy equal benefits and privilegesofemployment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees withoutdisabilitiesunless the accommodation imposes an undue hardship.
Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigatepublic transportation. If areasonable accommodation is needed pleasecontact Tawanda Jackson Human ResourcesSupervisor at or
Required Experience:
Junior IC
