Experienced Attorney: Post Conviction Defenders Division (Assistant Public Defender III)

Introduction The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks an experienced,zealous, and dedicated attorney to serve as Assistant Public Defender inthe MOPDs Post Conviction Defenders Division. MOPD is committed tobuilding a culturally diverse staff and strongly encourages peoplehistorically underrepresented in the practice of law to apply. The Post Conviction Defenders Division is dedicated to ensuring fairnessin criminal convictions and protecting the integrity of our criminaljustice system. This division represents indigent inmates atpost-conviction proceedings throughout the state of Maryland. MOPD strivesto achieve Justice, Fairness, and Dignity for All. Our employees arecommitted to the core values of a culture of excellence, client-centeredrepresentation, and tenacious advocacy, and are united as a team inachieving the MOPDs mission. Learn more about our mission and commitmentto diversity, equity, and inclusion. GRADE ASTD22 LOCATION OF POSITION Baltimore, MD Main Purpose of Job OVERVIEW OF POSITION: The attorney in this position is responsible for ensuring zealousrepresentation of indigent defendants in collateral attacks on convictions. Thesuccessful candidate will combine their demonstrated dedication to therepresentation of indigent clients with their strong litigation skills toprovide exceptional representation in post conviction and other relatedproceedings. Post Conviction Defenders are expected to work independently inmanaging active caseloads while simultaneously working in a team-orientedenvironment focused on a client-centered approach to representation. Thisposition requires travel throughout the state of Maryland. However, the officeis located in Baltimore, Maryland. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: Passionate and zealous representation of clients in post-convictionproceedings including, but not limited to conducting extensive legal research,writing persuasive legal briefs, interviewing potential witnesses, preparingfor hearings, conducting effective direct and cross-examinations, andnegotiating alternative resolutions. Lead and support special projects from concept through execution,including research, planning, and coordination across teams. Monitor, analyze, and engage with legislative and policy developmentsrelevant to the offices priorities. Draft briefings, memos, reports, and correspondence related tolegislative initiatives and special projects. Effectively and compassionately communicate with incarcerated clients,their families, colleagues, and service providers to ensure optimal outcomesfor clients. Ensure clients are consistently heard and respected. Continuously seek professional and personal development throughtraining, continuing legal education, trial skills courses, and keepingapprised of new and relevant case law. Other duties as assigned by the State Public Defender. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS : Demonstrated commitment to serving communities who have been pushed tothe margins. Clear dedication toupending systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal justice system. Compassion. Strong interpersonalskills and ability to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds and experiences. Excellent research, written and oral advocacy. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, diverse, team-oriented environment. Exceptionalorganizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to manage an active heavy caseload. Judicial law clerk experience and/or post-convictionexposure/litigation experience preferred. Active membership in good standing with the State of Maryland Bar orBar of another state. Attorneys barred in another state mustbecome members of the Maryland bar within 18 monthsof the start date. BENEFITS SALARY AND BENEFITS: Salary is dependent on experience and salary rules will apply to State ofMaryland employees. This would be a lateral transfer for any internal candidates applying. Assistant Public Defender III- starting at $107,687 (Grade 22: Step 10) Please visit the State of Maryland Employees page to review benefitinformation. FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS HOW TO APPLY: If you wish to be considered, please click here to fill out theapplication and submit the following items in one PDF attachment through theResume Tab: (1) a current resume, (2) a cover letter addressing the abovequalifications, (3) a list of four professional references, (4) a persuasive writingsample, not a judicial opinion, and (5) law school transcript (if within 3years of graduation). Incomplete applications will not be considered. Assistant Public Defenders are full-time employees and cannot engage inthe private practice of law while in this position. MD Code, Criminal ProcedureArt., Section 16-203(d)(2). As a State agency, the Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) isan affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. MOPD is committed to thefull inclusion of all qualified individuals without regard to race, color,religion, sex, physical or mental disability, age, sexual orientation, genderidentity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. All applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors andpossess the ability to complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment.Applicants must be able to work in various positions and travel to variouscourtrooms and office environments throughout the state. MOPD is furthercommitted to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation forindividuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activitiesby modifying or adjusting the job application process or the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known applicant oremployee to enable the applicant or employee be considered for the positionthey desire; to perform then essential functions of the position in question;or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed by othersimilarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the accommodationimposes an undue hardship. Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment.Applicants must have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate publictransportation. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact TawandaJackson, Human Resources Supervisor, at View phone number on click.appcast.io View email address on click.appcast.io.