APD Series; District 4 Charles County

About the Office

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is seeking entry-level and experienced zealous litigators to serve as Assistant Public Defenders in our Southern Maryland area Charles County office. 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 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. MOPD seeks candidates who will join us in providing compassionate, competent, zealous, and client-centered representation to all of our clients.

Learn more about our mission and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

About the Role

The positions require a range of experience from limited to moderate criminal trial experience to exceptional trial skills, innovative thinking, investigative skills, and the ability to work independently in managing an active caseload of district, felony, and other specialty cases such as juvenile, civil non-support, and violation of probation. Attorneys work in conjunction with social workers, investigators, experts, and core staff in a team-oriented environment. Attorneys must balance a client-centered approach to representation with advocacy to address systemic inequity and the collateral consequences that lead to deeper system involvement. Attorneys should be available to start within one month after receiving an offer.

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 as assigned by the District Public Defender.

Pay

• Assistant Public Defender I – starting at $88,999.00 (Grade 20: Step 06)
• Assistant Public Defender II – starting at $98,840.00 (Grade 21: Step 08)
• Assistant Public Defender III – starting at $109,794.00 (Grade 22: Step 10)

Salary is dependent on experience and salary rules will apply to State of Maryland employees. This would be a lateral transfer for any internal candidates applying.

Benefits

Please visit the State of Maryland Employee’s page to review benefit information.