EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY: DISTRICT VIII (BALTIMORE COUNTY)

IntroductionThe Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) has multiple openings
for experienced and zealous litigators to serve as Assistant Public Defenders in our District VIII
Baltimore County office. The Baltimore County office is an urban public defender’s office with approximately 70
employees providing client-centered representation to individuals charged with misdemeanors and
felonies in Baltimore County. The attorney in this position will combine their demonstrated commitment with
their strong and zealous litigation skills to provide exceptional representation on behalf of
their clients. We are committed to building a culturally diverse staff and strongly encourage people
historically underrepresented in the practice of law to apply.At MOPD we use our legal education and experience to fight for justice
and fairness, no matter what and we refuse to remain silent in the midst of human suffering. Our unique
talents, identities, educational backgrounds, and perspectives guide us in representing our clients. We
stand up against prejudice, systemic racism, and inequity in all of the spaces we occupy. MOPD seeks
candidates who will join us in providing compassionate, competent, zealous, and client-centered
representation to all of our clients. Learn more about our mission and commitment to diversity, equity, and
inclusion.GRADEASTD22; ASTD21LOCATION OF POSITIONTowson, MDMain Purpose of JobOVERVIEW OF THE POSITION:The positions require exceptional trial skills, innovative thinking,
investigative skills, and the ability to work independently in managing an
active felony caseload. Attorneys work in conjunction with social workers, investigators,
experts, and core staff in a team-oriented environment. Attorneys must be able
to balance a client-entered approach to representation with advocacy to
address systemic inequity and the collateral consequences that lead
to deeper system involvement. Positions are available in Towson,
Maryland. Attorneys should be available to start within one month after
receiving an offer.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Represent clients in all stages of their criminal case including bail
hearings, motions hearings, and trial, and post-trial hearings. Ensures clients are consistently heard and respected. Conducts legal research and analysis including changes in laws,
legislation, procedural rules, court decisions, and case precedents in
preparation for trial and to determine/anticipate legal problems and propose resolutions. Drafts and prepares reports, memoranda in opposition, briefs, motions,
and correspondence for clients. 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, judges, and other stakeholders to
establish agreements to resolve cases favorably for the client. Competently, independently, and resourcefully manage a full caseload. Continuously seek professional development by attending various
training sessions. Other duties as assigned by the Public Defender.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSCORE COMPETENCIES AND
REQUIREMENTS: Demonstrated commitment to
serving communities who have been pushed to the margins. Excellent research, writing,
and oral advocacy skills. Clear dedication to upending
systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal legal 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. Criminal jury trial
experience required. Felony (cases involving complex issues and/or where
clients are facing the possibility of a
life sentence) jury trial experience is preferred. Active membership in good
standing in the Maryland Bar or 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.BENEFITSSALARY AND BENEFITS:Salary is dependent on experience and salary rules will apply to State of
Maryland employees.This would be a lateral transfer for any internal candidates applying.Assistant Public Defender II- starting at $98,840.00 (Grade 21: Step 08)Assistant Public Defender III- starting at $109,794.00 (Grade 22: Step
10)Please visit the State of Maryland Employee’s page to review
benefit information.FURTHER INSTRUCTIONSHOW TO APPLY:If you wish to be considered, please click here to fill out the
application and upload the following documents in one PDF attachment through the Resume Tab of the Maryland
State Government Job Openings: (1) a current resume, (2) a cover letter, (3) a list of four
professional references, and (4) a writing sample no longer than fifteen (15) pages.Incomplete applications will not be considered.Assistant Public Defenders are full-time employees and cannot engage in
the private practice of law while in this position. MD Code, Criminal Procedure Art., Section 16-203(d)(2).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.All applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors and
possess the ability to complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment. Applicants must be able to work
in various positions and travel to various courtrooms, office environments, and detention facilities
throughout the state. MOPD is further committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for
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 to enable the applicant or employee be considered for the position they
desire; to perform the essential functions of the position in question; or to enjoy equal benefits and
privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities,
unless the accommodation imposes 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 public transportation. If a
reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Tawanda Jackson, Human Resources Supervisor, at
or
Department
Office of the Public Defender
Date Opened
10/16/ :59:00 PM
Filing Deadline
10/30/ :59:00 PM
Salary
APD III @ $109,794; APD II @ $98,840
HR Analyst
Angela Stokes
Work Location
Baltimore County