OVERVIEW OF THE POSITION:
Assistant Public Defenders combine their demonstrated dedication to the representation of indigent clients with strong research, writing, and advocacy skills to provide exceptional representation. Appellate attorneys are expected to work independently in managing active caseloads while simultaneously working in a team-oriented environment focused on a client-centered approach to representation. These positions allow for flexible work-from-home options. The positions will be located in Baltimore City and will involve travel to the appellate courts in Annapolis as well as correctional facilities located throughout Maryland.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
● Provide superior representation to clients throughout the appellate process, including identifying appellate issues, conducting thorough legal research, writing persuasive briefs and certiorari petitions, and presenting oral arguments.
● Actively and effectively communicate with clients, their families, trial attorneys, court staff, and opposing counsel.
● Ensure clients are consistently heard and respected.
● Work collaboratively with other MOPD employees to advance our clients’ interests.
● Continuously seek professional development through training, continuing legal education, and advocacy courses.
● Competently and resourcefully prepare for and manage an active caseload.
● Other duties as assigned by the State Public Defender.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
Salary is dependent on experience and salary rules will apply to State of Maryland employees.
This would be a lateral transfer for any internal candidates applying.
Assistant Public Defender I- $84,225.00-$118,953.00 (Grade 20, Step 6-24)
Assistant Public Defender II- $93,424.00-126,912.00 (Grade 21, Step 8-24)
Assistant Public Defender III- $103,514.00-$135,450.00 (Grade 22, Step 10-24)
Please visit the State of Maryland Employee’s page to review benefit information.
CORE COMPETENCIES AND REQUIREMENTS:
● Demonstrated commitment to serving communities who have been pushed to the margins.
● Dedication to upending systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal justice system.
● Compassion for the clients and communities served by MOPD.
● Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds and experiences.
● Strong issue-spotting, research, oral advocacy, and writing skills.
● Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.
● Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to handle a high caseload.
● Active membership in good standing in another state’s Maryland Bar or Bar. Attorneys already barred in another state must become members of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of the start date. Preference in the selection process will be given to candidates who are already a member of the Maryland Bar.
HOW TO APPLY:
If you wish to be considered, please click here to fill out the application and submit the following items in one PDF attachment through the Maryland State Government Job Openings Page Resume Tab: (1) a current resume, (2) a cover letter, (3) a list of four professional references, and (4) a writing sample. Incomplete applications will not be considered.