The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks an experienced client-centered
litigator and demonstrated leader to serve as the Supervising Attorney for the District V office
serving Prince George’s County. The Prince George’s office is a large urban public defender’s
office with approximately 65+ attorneys and staff. We are committed to building a culturally
diverse staff and strongly encourage people historically underrepresented in the practice of law
to apply.
MOPD’s vision is for Justice, Fairness, and Dignity for All. We are committed to our core
values of a culture of excellence, client-centered representation, and tenacious advocacy, and
remain united as a team in achieving our mission. At MOPD we use our legal education and
experience to fight for justice and fairness, no matter what and we refuse to remain silent in the
midst of human suffering. Our unique talents, identities, educational backgrounds, and
perspectives guide us in representing our clients. We stand up against prejudice, systemic racism,
and inequity in all of the spaces we occupy. Learn more about our mission and commitment to
diversity, equity, and inclusion.
OVERVIEW OF THE POSITION
The District V office of MOPD is seeking a Circuit Court Supervisor who combines their
demonstrated dedication to the representation of indigent clients with their strong leadership and
litigation skills to ensure the highest standard of client representation in a team-oriented
environment focused on a client-centered approach to representation. The Supervising Attorney
uses their strong leadership and supervision skills to cultivate and sustain a culture of excellence,
respect, and positivity while simultaneously ensuring the efficient day-to-day operations of the
office. This position is located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
-Reports to the District Public Defender and Deputy District Public Defender for District V.
- Works closely with the leadership team to maintain a high standard of representation by
ensuring accountability while fostering mentorship, teamwork, and communication.
- Supervises attorneys handling bail reviews, misdemeanor, juvenile, non-support, violation of
probation, and felony cases as well as other professional and support staff.
- Monitors the attorney caseloads and the distribution of cases to ensure optimal client
outcomes and attorney development.
- Actively consults with attorneys on case preparation and trial strategy.
- Identifies, assesses, and cultivates talent amongst attorneys.
- Ensures accountability through the regular evaluation of attorney and staff performance.
- Fosters a culture of respect, honesty, and collaboration.
- Supports the vision of the District Public Defender internally and externally.
- Follows, supports, and promotes directives given by the District Public Defender for the
advancement of the agency and the local office.
- Fosters a culture of excellence, resourcefulness, and zealousness amongst attorneys and staff.
- Handles and approves transcript requests, investigation requests, and panel determinations.
- Works closely with the Training Division and other Statewide Divisions to ensure effective
representation through the development of relevant policies, practices, and training
(including conducting regular in-house training programs).
- Maintains an active caseload.
- Performs other duties as determined by the State Public Defender.
TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS
- Demonstrated commitment to zealous and comprehensive public defense.
- Excellent writing, research, and oral advocacy skills.
-A desire to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with constructive feedback and
performance evaluations.
- Substantial criminal litigation experience and strong trial skills (a minimum of 5 years
preferred; felony jury trial experience strongly preferred).
- Commitment to addressing systemic inadequacies and inequities in the criminal justice
system.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues,
adversaries, clients, and family members, irrespective of differences in backgrounds and
lived experiences.
- Strong ability to advocate for the office with external stakeholders without alienating the
advancement of the office.
- Commitment to working with community advocates to educate and serve the community.
- Flexibility and regular attendance at community events promoting the work of the agency.
- Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to manage dynamic
teams and high-volume caseloads.
- Demonstrated leadership, mentorship, supervisory, client advocacy, and management
abilities.
- Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or Bar of another state. Attorneys
barred in another state must become a member of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of the
start date.
SALARY
Salary is dependent on experience and the State of Maryland salary rules will apply to any offer
made. This is a promotion opportunity for current MOPD attorneys at Grade 22 or below.
This would be a lateral transfer for MOPD attorneys currently at Grade 23.
Assistant Public Defender Supervisor: starting at $124,302.00 (Grade 23, Step 13).
BENEFITS
The Maryland Office of the Public Defender offers a generous benefits package that includes
excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance. Benefits also include retirement savings, life
insurance, and the option to participate in supplemental retirement options. MOPD Employees
receive 6 days of personal leave, 15 days of sick leave, and at least 10 days of annual leave each
calendar year in addition to paid holidays, and parental leave.
For more details and a full list of benefits as an employee with the Maryland Office of the Public
Defender click here.
HOW TO APPLY
If you wish to be considered, please click here to fill out the application and upload the following
documents in one PDF attachment through the Resume Tab in the JoabAps Application: (1) a
current resume, (2) a cover letter, and (3) a list of four professional references.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Assistant Public Defenders are full-time employees and cannot engage in the private
practice of law while in this position. MD Code, Criminal Procedure Art., Section 16-
203(d)(2). Assistant Public Defenders cannot engage in the private practice of law while in
this position.
As a State agency, the Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is an affirmative
action and equal opportunity employer. MOPD is committed to the full inclusion of all
qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, physical or mental
disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic
information.
All applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors and possess the ability
to complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment. Applicants must be able to work in
various positions and travel to various courtrooms, office environments, and detention
facilities throughout the state. MOPD is further committed to providing equal opportunity
and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services,
programs, and activities by modifying or adjusting the job application process or the job or
work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known applicant or
employee to enable the applicant or employee be considered for the position they desire; to
perform the essential functions of the position in question; or to enjoy equal benefits and
privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without
disabilities, unless the accommodation imposes an undue hardship.
Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment. Applicants
must have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation. If a
reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Tawanda Jackson, Human Resources
Supervisor, at 410-767-8503 or [email protected].
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