Appellate Defense Counsel (Norman)

The Oklahoma Indigent Defense System (OIDS) is the statewide public defender agency which provides legal representation to indigent clients throughout the State of Oklahoma, with the exception of Oklahoma and Tulsa counties.

OIDS is currently seeking a full-time Appellate Defense Counsel in our Appellate East Division in our Norman office. 

Basic Purpose

Positions in this job family are responsible for all phases of the direct appeal of assigned capital and/or non-capital cases before the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals.  The position is responsible for all phases of the direct appeal process and the delivery of legal representation in the assigned cases and management of all phases of the appellate litigation process. 

Typical Functions

Performs case management activities at all phases of the direct appeal in the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals. This includes maintaining complete and accurate files of all pleadings and orders

Performs initial and on-going legal research

Reviews court records to identify legal error and develop legal and factual arguments within the wide scope of appellate review Reviews court records to identify error and develop issues and provide arguments within the wide scope of appellate review.

Reviews jury instructions and makes appropriate recommendations for change if warranted

Makes note of important testimony/evidence admitted during trial to establish fact pattern and identify potential errors.

Opens or supervises the opening of new client files

Communicates with client concerning status of the case and comply with reasonable requests for information

Directs or assists in appeal briefs and pleadings

Investigates matters outside the trial record when required.

Prepares or assists in the presentations of oral arguments as necessary or when required

Prepares for or assists in the preparation to appear on the client’s behalf in district court as necessary or when required

Supervises, consults on, or prepares petitions for writs of certiorari to the United States Supreme Court in capital cases.

Serves as Co-counsel and provides ongoing advice, assistance, and support to other attorneys

Participates in peer review of all attorney work product

Level Descriptor

Positions may be filled at Levels I - VI, depending on candidate experience.

Salary commensurate with qualifications and agency salary schedule.   

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies

Knowledge, skills, and abilities include knowledge of Oklahoma state court system; conducting legal research; civil and criminal law and procedure; effective oral and written communication; interviewing client, witnesses, and other parties; investigative processes and procedures; and court proceedings to avoid legal error.

Ability is required to prepare or assist in the preparation of legal documents for assigned cases.

Education and Experience

Applicants should possess a Juris Doctorate degree, active membership and good standing with the State Bar of Oklahoma, or eligibility for admission.  Or applicants should be scheduled to take the Oklahoma Bar Exam. 

Special Requirements

Must abide by the Oklahoma Rules of Professional Conduct

Job-related travel may be required.

Benefit Highlights

The Oklahoma Indigent Defense System provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our employees and their dependents.  Benefits Include:

Generous state paid benefit allowance to help cover insurance premiums

Wide choice of insurance plans with no pre-existing condition exclusions or limitations

Life/Supplemental Life/Dependent Life/Disability insurance plans

Flexible spending accounts for health care expenses or dependent care

Employee assistance program and health/fitness programs

15 days of vacation and 15 days of sick leave the first year for full time employees (amounts increase with years of service)

11 paid holidays

Retirement Savings Plan with a generous match

Longevity Bonus for years of service

Method of Application

Interested applicants are encouraged to provide letter of interest and resume with their online application.

All Sources: Applicants without previous state service, with previous state service but not currently employed by a state agency, OR currently in trial period status, must apply through the Workday online External Listings applicant system (State of Oklahoma Careers – https://okgov.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/okgovjobs).

Current State of Oklahoma Employees: Must apply for open positions through their Workday account: https://www.myworkday.com/wday/authgwy/okgov/login.htmld. After logging into Workday, go to Menu > Careers > Find Jobs – Internal State of Oklahoma.