State of Missouri
Overview
The Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) is dedicated to providing legal representation to citizens accused of or convicted of crimes in Missouri who cannot afford an attorney. MSPD operates statewide through district offices with opportunities to work in diverse settings, from urban areas (e.g., Kansas City and St. Louis) to rural environments. With a team of about 700 professionals, including over 400 attorneys, MSPD handles diverse caseloads. Training is a priority, with continuous professional development and trial skills courses to support public defenders in delivering justice. Responsibilities
As a Public Defender Trial Attorney, represent clients throughout all phases of criminal matters in Missouri and establish professional relationships with clients. Advise and counsel clients, conduct thorough case investigations, and appear in court for scheduled dockets and appearances. Client Advocacy: develop and maintain professional relationships with clients via telephone, meetings, and institutional visits; provide comprehensive legal counsel at every stage of the case. Case Investigation: conduct thorough investigations, including interviews with clients, witnesses, expert witnesses, and family members; review law enforcement reports and discovery materials to build a solid defense strategy. Communication and Transparency: keep clients informed about investigations, negotiations, and court rulings; maintain open and transparent communication regarding legal matters. Court Appearances: attend regularly scheduled court dockets and all appearances related to the caseload; litigate all aspects of each case through disposition at the trial court level. Legal Research and Document Preparation: conduct legal research on statutes and relevant court decisions; prepare motions, pleadings, and briefs for hearings and trials. Trial Preparation: prepare cases, clients, and witnesses for trial with a comprehensive and strategic approach. Client Interests and Holistic Approach: promote and protect clients’ best interests with a holistic approach to representation. Collaboration: collaborate with colleagues and support staff to provide comprehensive legal services; foster a team-oriented approach. Continuing Legal Education (CLE): attend CLE sessions as required to stay updated and enhance professional skills. Maintain eligibility to practice law in the State of Missouri; this may include awaiting bar results or transferring a license from another state. Demonstrate a passion for criminal defense, strong communication and advocacy skills, and the ability to manage a diverse caseload with efficiency and attention to detail; willingness to work in varied settings and adapt as necessary. Qualifications
Licensed to practice law in the State of Missouri, or awaiting bar results, or transferring a bar license from another state. Strong communication and advocacy skills. Ability to manage a diverse caseload with efficiency and attention to detail. Willingness to work in varied settings and adapt as necessary. Collaborative spirit to work effectively with support staff and legal team members. Openness to continuous learning and participation in training programs. Location and Employment Type
This is a full-time position based in Gladstone. The successful candidate will receive competitive compensation and State of Missouri benefits, including a defined pension plan, leave and holiday time, and health insurance eligibility. Learn more about benefits at https://publicdefender.mo.gov/employment/working-for-mspd/benefits/. The Total Compensation Calculator and applicant resources are available at https://pers.oa.mo.gov/applicants. Compensation Note
The salary listed reflects the base pay rate. Verified prior state service, subject to applicable eligibility requirements, may increase total compensation. Contact
Human.Resources@mspd.mo.gov
#J-18808-Ljbffr
The Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) is dedicated to providing legal representation to citizens accused of or convicted of crimes in Missouri who cannot afford an attorney. MSPD operates statewide through district offices with opportunities to work in diverse settings, from urban areas (e.g., Kansas City and St. Louis) to rural environments. With a team of about 700 professionals, including over 400 attorneys, MSPD handles diverse caseloads. Training is a priority, with continuous professional development and trial skills courses to support public defenders in delivering justice. Responsibilities
As a Public Defender Trial Attorney, represent clients throughout all phases of criminal matters in Missouri and establish professional relationships with clients. Advise and counsel clients, conduct thorough case investigations, and appear in court for scheduled dockets and appearances. Client Advocacy: develop and maintain professional relationships with clients via telephone, meetings, and institutional visits; provide comprehensive legal counsel at every stage of the case. Case Investigation: conduct thorough investigations, including interviews with clients, witnesses, expert witnesses, and family members; review law enforcement reports and discovery materials to build a solid defense strategy. Communication and Transparency: keep clients informed about investigations, negotiations, and court rulings; maintain open and transparent communication regarding legal matters. Court Appearances: attend regularly scheduled court dockets and all appearances related to the caseload; litigate all aspects of each case through disposition at the trial court level. Legal Research and Document Preparation: conduct legal research on statutes and relevant court decisions; prepare motions, pleadings, and briefs for hearings and trials. Trial Preparation: prepare cases, clients, and witnesses for trial with a comprehensive and strategic approach. Client Interests and Holistic Approach: promote and protect clients’ best interests with a holistic approach to representation. Collaboration: collaborate with colleagues and support staff to provide comprehensive legal services; foster a team-oriented approach. Continuing Legal Education (CLE): attend CLE sessions as required to stay updated and enhance professional skills. Maintain eligibility to practice law in the State of Missouri; this may include awaiting bar results or transferring a license from another state. Demonstrate a passion for criminal defense, strong communication and advocacy skills, and the ability to manage a diverse caseload with efficiency and attention to detail; willingness to work in varied settings and adapt as necessary. Qualifications
Licensed to practice law in the State of Missouri, or awaiting bar results, or transferring a bar license from another state. Strong communication and advocacy skills. Ability to manage a diverse caseload with efficiency and attention to detail. Willingness to work in varied settings and adapt as necessary. Collaborative spirit to work effectively with support staff and legal team members. Openness to continuous learning and participation in training programs. Location and Employment Type
This is a full-time position based in Gladstone. The successful candidate will receive competitive compensation and State of Missouri benefits, including a defined pension plan, leave and holiday time, and health insurance eligibility. Learn more about benefits at https://publicdefender.mo.gov/employment/working-for-mspd/benefits/. The Total Compensation Calculator and applicant resources are available at https://pers.oa.mo.gov/applicants. Compensation Note
The salary listed reflects the base pay rate. Verified prior state service, subject to applicable eligibility requirements, may increase total compensation. Contact
Human.Resources@mspd.mo.gov
#J-18808-Ljbffr