The non-capital appellate attorney (Attorney IV) is an advanced-level attorney with a high degree of experience and knowledge in appellate defense in California. The non-cap appellate attorney supports the development of attorneys at the Office of the State Public Defender (OSPD) working on meeting the qualifications to be lead counsel in death penalty cases and is expected to work with individual attorneys at OSPD, become knowledgeable about the facts, records, and law in their cases, and provide training and feedback to attorneys on writing and legal issue development in their cases.
This position is telework eligible but must be a California resident and a member of the California Bar.
Knowledge of rules of evidence and conduct of proceedings in trial and appellate courts of California and the United States.
Ability to effectively review case records, analyze difficult and complex legal problems, and apply legal principles and precedents to legal problems.
Ability to craft clear and effective written pleadings in complex appellate cases.
Experience providing effective feedback on briefs and oral arguments and supporting skill building.
Experience building trusting relationships with a diverse array of clients, some of whom may have serious mental illness, substance use disorder, and/or intellectual disabilities.
Familiarity with the impact of race on criminal trials and appeals, on persons subject to incarceration, and on the criminal legal system as a whole.