• Represent indigent juveniles in delinquency proceedings in Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court
• Represent indigent parents in the abuse, neglect and dependency cases in Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court
• Serve as co-counsel to juveniles who are bound over to the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas – General Division
• Assist attorneys in the appellate division who are litigating appeals arising out of juvenile court or juvenile related issues
• Respond to requests for legal assistance from individuals with criminal issues who contact the Public Defender’s Office.
• Participate in community events and meetings related to the work of the Cuyahoga County Public Defender.
• Perform all other duties assigned, delegated or required of the assistant public defenders
• Significant legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills and experience
• A demonstrated capacity to work creatively and collaboratively on legal issues confronting our indigent clients
• A demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with clients who are children and adolescents
• A commitment to the representation of indigent individuals and an understanding of how systemic societal issues affect families
• An ability to engage knowledgeably and compassionately with clients who are experiencing mental health concerns, substance abuse, and trauma
• Availability for all times court is open and be available to meet and work outside the normal working hours if necessary
• Commitment to social justice and defending the rights of indigent individuals charged and convicted of crimes
• Demonstrated understanding of the issues of race, poverty, mental health, and substance abuse as they relate to the criminal justice system
• Experience working in and with racially and socioeconomically marginalized communities
Proof of up to date COVID-19 vaccination required for employment.
All applications must be submitted by Friday August 11, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. and must include the following:
• A cover letter
• A resume
• Three references
• Two writing samples that reflects your legal research and writing ability as well as your capacity for persuasive writing
These materials should be addressed to the Chief Public Defender Cullen Sweeney and sent by email or mail at:
Cuyahoga County Public Defender
Courthouse Square
c/o Maria Pollman
310 W. Lakeside - Suite 400
Cleveland, Ohio 44113
If sending via email, please direct to: [email protected]