APD: DISTRICT VIII: BALTIMORE COUNTY ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER I

Introduction The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks zealous litigators to serve as Assistant Public Defenders in Baltimore County, Maryland. Assistant Public Defenders combine their demonstrated commitment with strong and zealous litigation skills to provide exceptional representation on behalf of their clients. MOPD is committed to building a culturally diverse staff and strongly encourages people historically underrepresented in the practice of law to apply. Main Purpose of Job This position requires a willingness to learn, train, and practice exceptional trial skills, innovative thinking, investigative skills, and the ability to work as a team in managing an active district court caseload. Attorneys work in conjunction with social workers, investigators, and core staff in a team‑oriented environment. Attorneys must balance a client‑centered approach to representation with advocacy to address systemic inequity and the collateral consequences that lead to deeper system involvement. This position will be located in all three Baltimore County district courts and attorneys will rotate between courts depending on need. Duties and Responsibilities Passionate and zealous representation of clients at every stage of the criminal process. Ensure clients are consistently heard and respected. Conduct legal research and analysis on changes in laws, legislation, procedural rules, court decisions, and case precedents to prepare for trial and anticipate legal problems. Communicate effectively and compassionately with clients, team members, colleagues, and service providers to ensure optimal outcomes. Counsel clients on changes in law, court decisions, and legal issues. Negotiate with prosecutors and other parties to establish agreements that favor the client. Resourcefully manage a full caseload. Continuously seek professional and personal development through training, CLEs, and trial skills courses. Other duties as assigned by the Public Defender. Minimum Qualifications Demonstrated commitment to serving communities that have been pushed to the margins. Clear dedication to upending systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal justice system. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds and lived experiences. Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, diverse, team‑oriented environment. Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to handle a high caseload. Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or a bar of another state. Attorneys barred in another state must become members of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of their start date. Benefits Salary is dependent on experience and salary rules will apply to State of Maryland employees. Assistant Public Defender I earns $87,620.00 (starting at Grade 20: Step 06). Details about benefits can be reviewed on the State of Maryland Employees page. Eligibility and Equal Opportunity Statement 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. MOPD is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities by modifying or adjusting the job application process or the work environment as needed. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Maryland