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Maryland Military Department

Assistant Public Defender: Dorchester Co. (Assistant Public Defender I, II, & II

Maryland Military Department, Baltimore, Maryland, United States

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Assistant Public Defender: Dorchester Co.

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) has openings for entry-level and experienced zealous litigators to serve as Assistant Public Defenders in our Eastern area Dorchester County office. 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. Overview Of The Position The positions require a range of experience from limited/moderate amount of criminal trial experience to exceptional trial skills, innovative thinking, investigative skills, and the ability to work independently in managing an active case load of district, felony, and other specialty cases such as juvenile, civil non-support, and violation of probation. Primary Responsibilities Represent clients in all stages of their criminal case, including bail hearings, motions hearings, trial, and post-trial hearings. Ensure clients are consistently heard and respected. Conduct 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. Draft and prepare 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. Counsel and advise clients on changes in law, court decisions, and legal issues. Negotiate 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 assigned by the District Public Defender. Minimum Qualifications 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. Benefits Salary and Benefits: Salary is dependent on experience and salary rules will apply to State of Maryland employees. 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.

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