Assistant Public Defender - Death Penalty

Organization Public Defender Commission Primary Location United States of America - OHIO - Franklin County - Columbus Compensation $76,440 - $108,722 (State of Ohio E1 Exempt Pay Schedule) Schedule Full‑time Job Description The Office of the Ohio Public Defender (OPD) is seeking an Assistant Public Defender in the Death Penalty Department to represent indigent death‑sentenced clients through post‑trial litigation and executive clemency. Represent clients in direct appeal, post‑conviction, federal habeas corpus litigation and executive clemency proceedings. Work collaboratively with a team of attorneys, mitigation specialists, fact investigators, and administrative staff. Review capital trial records, conduct investigations into the underlying offense, trial and sentencing proceedings, and client background. Identify and collaborate with experts in relevant fields (capital defense, forensics, mental health, trauma, etc.). Research, brief, and argue cases on direct appeal to the Supreme Court of Ohio. Prepare and litigate post‑conversion petitions and habeas petitions, including discovery, evidentiary hearings, and appellate briefing. Advocate for executive clemency, developing a compelling narrative, coordinating with supporters, and communicating strategically. Responsibilities Essential duties include but are not limited to: Reviewing capital trial records for errors and investigative opportunities. Investigating client history, systemic factors, and relevant circumstances (e.g., racism, poverty, mental health). Identifying and collaborating with experts and witnesses. Researching, briefing, and arguing cases on direct appeal. Preparing and litigating post‑conviction and habeas petitions, including discovery and hearings. Advocating for executive clemency, crafting narratives, and supporting clients. Qualifications

• Admission to the Ohio bar, and necessary admission to federal courts or Supreme Court as required.
• Certification for capital case advisory as required by the Commission on Appointment of Counsel in Capital Cases.
• Strong analytical, reasoning, written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team and receive/ provide constructive feedback.
• Commitment to indigent defense and capacity for compassionate client engagement.

Application Requirements Attach a cover letter explaining your interest in capital defense work and a writing sample. Applications lacking a cover letter and writing sample will not be reviewed. Compensation Details Step 1 – $36.75 hourly / $76,440 annually Step 2 – $38.75 hourly / $80,660 annually Step 3 – $40.87 hourly / $85,010 annually Step 4 – $43.07 hourly / $89,586 annually Step 5 – $45.50 hourly / $94,640 annually Step 6 – $47.95 hourly / $99,736 annually Step 7 – $49.92 hourly / $103,834 annually Step 8 – $52.27 hourly / $108,722 annually Benefits Medical coverage Free dental, vision and basic life insurance premiums after eligibility Paid time off: vacation, personal, sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year Childbirth, adoption, foster care leave Education and development opportunities (Employee Development Funds, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, etc.) Public retirement systems – OPERS, STRS, SERS, HPRS, and optional deferred compensation (Ohio Deferred Compensation) Additional Information Applicants will be required to undergo a drug test and a background check. A positive drug test result will disqualify an applicant. Background checks and state income tax checks will be conducted; prior convictions will be assessed on a case‑by‑case basis. This position is at the pleasure and discretion of the State Public Defender and has an unclassified status per Ohio Revised Code 124.11 (A)(9). Disability Accommodation Statement The Office of the Ohio Public Defender complies with federal and state disability laws and offers reasonable accommodations. Contact OPD HCM Department at View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io for assistance during the application process. Drug‑Free Workplace The State of Ohio is a drug‑free workplace and prohibits all forms of marijuana. The position may be subject to additional restrictions per State policy. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Ohio