The Regional Public Defender for Capital Cases (RPDO) is accepting applications for a full-time Assistant Public Defender. RPDO represents clients in rural Texas counties at the trial level when the State of Texas is seeking a death sentence. We only handle death penalty cases and only at the trial level. RPDO is a state-wide organization with offices in Lubbock, San Angelo, Terrell, Austin, San Antonio, and Angleton. Our current openings are in Angleton, Lubbock, San Angelo and San Antonio. We represent clients facing the ultimate penalty, you must be a pro-active, self-starter willing to go the extra mile and work the extra hours. All attorneys work as part of a team that include two lawyers, a mitigation specialist, a fact investigator, and a legal assistant, all of whom offer valuable perspectives, backgrounds, and expertise. The ability to work in a team and value the input of your team members is a requirement for this work. Prior felony trial experience is also required.
Mission, Vision and Values of the R.P.D.O.
Mission: Advocating the value of our clients’ lives
Vision: Ending the death penalty one life at a time
Values:
Teamwork -- All voices are equal as we work together with a common goal
Humility – We serve the good of the client, not our egos
Creativity – We search for individualized ways to connect with and represent each client
Tenacity – We are determined and persistent
Compassion – We honor the humanity of clients, victims, families, and one another
1) J.D./LL.B. from an accredited law school;
2) be a member in good standing of the State Bar of Texas or obtain a Texas license within 6 months of appointment;
3) exhibit exceptional trial skills and commitment to providing excellence in representation of our clients;
4) have trial experience in:
a. the use of and challenge to mental health or forensic expert witnesses; and
b. investigating and presenting mitigating evidence at the penalty phase of a death penalty trial is a plus;
5) have at least five years’ experience in criminal law and during that time demonstrated that he or she has the required legal knowledge and skill necessary to provide representation in capital felonies and will apply that knowledge and skill with appropriate thoroughness and preparation;
6) have tried to verdict as lead counsel a significant number of felony trials, including homicide trials and other trials for offenses punishable as first or second-degree felonies or capital felonies, preferably homicide cases; and
7) have participated in continuing legal education courses or other training relating to criminal defense and willing to attend CLE for death penalty cases; and
8) provide list of death penalty cases tried to verdict and/or documentation of felony trial experience.
Send cover letter, resume and trial list to [email protected]