Chief Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties.  

Join our dynamic team and a part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense which includes not just excellence in client representation but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit:

MPD is currently searching for a Chief Attorney to join our Multnomah County Office . The Chief Attorney is a management position that represents MPD in policy and operation discussions with criminal legal system stakeholders regarding issues and processes related to their supervised unit. This position manages a team of 6-10 attorneys with caseloads. The Chief Attorney mentors and supervises all team members on a continuing basis, including staffing cases, trial observations, regular check-ins, and other related supervision. In addition to the management and policy responsibilities, the Chief Attorney will also handle a misdemeanor or felony caseload of 0.25-0.75, depending on team. This position receives general supervision from the Multnomah County Director.

This position pays $130,153.66 - $174,175.04 per year. Staff is an at-will employee. This is a full-time, in-office exempt position.

In addition to compensation, MPD also offers:

• Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental (choice of PPO Base or PPO Enhanced) and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid 
• 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of service
• PTO – 24 hours upon hire, accrues monthly up to 80 hours and increasing up to 120 hours starting at 24 months
• 10 paid holidays + 2 Personal Equity Days
• 4 Mental Health Days per year 
• Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire + accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employment

Position Qualifications

• Must be a current member of the Oregon State Bar in good standing or eligible for reciprocity admission.
• Experience working in indigent criminal defense.
• OPDC qualified to handle misdemeanor and felony cases
• Ability to travel to and work within criminal justice system facilities and to testify in court without impeachment

Position Preferences

• Excellent organizational and time management skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to meet deadlines
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system.
• Experience with training, coaching and/or supervision
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Work Environment:

• MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful.
• Work is generally sedentary and in an office setting, courthouse, or jail facility. 
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• This is an in-person/in-office position.

Application Process:  

• Submit a resume and cover letter on why you are interested in this position and/or in support of public defense.

Diversity and Inclusion:   At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for all our staff.

MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.

Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act:  We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.