ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER I

20

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 attorneys in these positions are expected to work independently in managing active caseloads while simultaneously working in team-oriented environments focused on a client-centered approach to representation. Successful candidates for these positions will begin their employment with OPD in late August of 2015.  

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:  

Fervent representation of indigent defendants charged with misdemeanor criminal and traffic matters. 

Ability to competently and resourcefully prepare for and manage an active District Court caseload; including, but not limited to the handling of bail review hearings, District Court trials, preliminary hearings, violation of probation hearings, and modification of sentence hearings. 

Actively communicate with clients, team members, and resources for optimal client outcomes. 

Continuously seek professional development through trainings, continuing legal education and trial skills courses. 

Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or Bar of another state by August, 2015.*  Accordingly, most current 3Ls are not eligible for this position. 

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS  

In addition to submitting this electronic application, please submit via email a: (1) current resume, (2) cover letter, (3) law school transcript (official or unofficial); (4) list of references, and (5) 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.   

Please email items (1) - (5) in one email to attorneyjobs@opd.state.md.us.  In the subject line of the email please indicate “Fall Class 2015.”  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

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

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.

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

As an equal opportunity employer Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity.