APD: DISTRICT VII: ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER I

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks experienced and zealous litigators to serve as Assistant Public Defenders in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Assistant Public Defenders combine their demonstrated commitment with strong 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. Location : Annapolis and Glen Burnie District Courts. Main Purpose of Job / Overview of the Position 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 managing an active district court caseload. Attorneys work in conjunction with social workers, investigators, and core staff in a team‑oriented environment. They must balance a client‑centered approach to representation with advocacy to address systemic inequity and the collateral consequences that lead to deeper system involvement. Positions are available in both Annapolis and Glen Burnie district courts, with possible rotation between the 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, including changes in laws, legislation, procedural rules, court decisions, and case precedents, in preparation for trial and to anticipate legal problems and propose resolutions. Effectively and compassionately communicate with clients, team members, colleagues, and service providers to ensure optimal outcomes for clients. Counsels and advises clients on changes in law, court decisions, and legal issues. Negotiates with prosecutors and other parties to establish agreements to resolve cases favorably for the client. Resourcefully manages a full caseload. Continuously seeks professional and personal development through trainings, 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 the Bar of another state. Attorneys barred in another state must become members of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of their start date with MOPD. Benefits Salary and Benefits : Salary is dependent on experience and will conform to State of Maryland employee standards. The starting salary for Assistant Public Defender I (Grade 20, Step 06) is $87,620.00. This would be a lateral transfer for any internal candidates applying. For detailed benefit information, please consult the State of Maryland Employee’s page. Application Requirements and Equal Opportunity Statement Applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors, complete tasks in a fast‑paced work environment, work in various positions, and travel to courtrooms, office environments, and detention facilities throughout the state. They must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment, and 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 View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io. As a State agency, the Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer 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 further committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation to 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. Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment, and have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation. Applicant must be authorized to work in the United States. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Tawanda Jackson, Human Resources Supervisor, at View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Maryland