ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER I

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (OPD) seeks a zealous, and dedicated juvenile defender to represent children in juvenile delinquency matters in Southern Maryland.  OPD provides superior representation to indigent clients throughout the State of Maryland.   The Southern Maryland office represents clients in Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s counties.  The Agency’s vision is for Justice, Fairness, and Dignity for All. Employees are committed to the core values of a culture of excellence, client-centered representation, tenacious advocacy, and are united as a team in achieving the Agency’s mission.

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An Assistant Public Defender combines his/her demonstrated dedication to the representation of indigent clients with his/her strong and zealous litigation skills to provide exceptional representation on behalf of all his/her clients. The attorney in this position is expected to work independently in managing an active juvenile caseload while simultaneously working in a team-oriented environment focused on a client-centered approach to representation. Although the primary responsibility will be the representation of juveniles, the attorney in this position will also represent adults at various phases of criminal proceedings in District Court. This position commences in January, 2015.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Zealous representation of juvenile clients at every stage of the delinquency process.
Zealous representation of adult clients in proceedings in District Court.
Ability to competently, independently, and resourcefully manage an active caseload.
Actively communicate with clients, family members, and team members, and resources for optimal client outcomes.
Continuously seek professional development through training and other continuing legal education and trial skills courses.

To apply for this position please submit a: (1) current resume, (2) cover letter addressing the above qualifications, (3) list of references, and (4) completed Applicant Essay (available on our website under “Careers”).  Cover letters should be addressed to:  Johanna Cohen Leshner, Director of Recruitment 6 St. Paul Street, Suite 1400 Baltimore, Maryland 21202.

(1)-(4) outlined above must be submitted electronically.  Please email items (1)-(4) in one email to attorneyjobs@opd.state.md.us.  In the subject line of the email please indicate “APDI Juvenile Division, Southern Maryland.”  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

TTY Users: call via Maryland Relay, 1-800-925-4434.

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country, and encourage them to apply.

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Assistant Public Defenders are full-time employees who serve at the pleasure of the Public Defender.  Criminal Procedure Art., Section 16-203(d).  Assistant Public Defenders cannot engage in the private practice of law while in this position.