Attorney - Kennett

About the role

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 that are strategically located throughout the state, offering opportunities to work in diverse settings, from urban areas like Kansas City and St. Louis to more rural environments. With a team of about 700 professionals, including over 400 attorneys, MSPD handles diverse caseloads. Training is a top priority and MSPD ensures continuous professional development with distinguished, nationally recognized trial skills courses that equip public defenders for their commitment to justice.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain professional relationships with clients through telephone communication, meetings, and institutional visits.
• Provide comprehensive legal counsel and guidance to clients at every stage of their case.
• Conduct thorough investigations, including interviews with clients, witnesses, expert witnesses, and family members.
• Review law enforcement reports and examine discovery materials to build a solid defense strategy.
• Keep clients informed about the progress of investigations, negotiations, and court rulings.
• Ensure open and transparent communication with clients regarding their legal matters.
• Attend regularly scheduled court dockets and all appearances related to the assigned caseload.
• Effectively litigate all aspects of each client's case through disposition at the trial court level.
• Conduct legal research to stay abreast of statutes, regulations, and pertinent court decisions.
• Prepare legal documents, including motions, pleadings, and briefs for hearings, trials, and legal proceedings.
• Prepare cases, clients, and witnesses for trial, ensuring a comprehensive and strategic approach.
• Promote and protect the best interests of clients at all times, incorporating a holistic approach to legal representation.
• Collaborate with colleagues and support staff to provide comprehensive legal services.
• Foster a team-oriented approach to enhance the overall effectiveness of legal representation.
• Attend CLE sessions as required to stay updated on legal developments and enhance professional skills.

Requirements

• Licensed to practice law in the State of Missouri, awaiting bar results, or transferring bar license from a different state.
• Passion for criminal defense and commitment to justice for indigent clients.
• Strong communication and advocacy skills.
• Able 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.

Qualifications

• Passion for criminal defense and commitment to justice for indigent clients.
• Strong communication and advocacy skills.
• Able 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.

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize workload effectively.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective negotiation and conflict resolution abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

This is a full-time position based in Kennett. The successful candidate will receive competitive compensation and State of Missouri benefits that include a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Learn more about benefits at https://publicdefender.mo.gov/employment/working-for-mspd/benefits/.

Pay

The salary listed reflects the base pay rate. Verified prior state service, subject to applicable eligibility requirements, may increase total compensation. For more information, please contact Human.Resources@mspd.mo.gov.

Schedule

This is a full-time position based in Kennett. For more details on the schedule, please refer to the job description or contact the Human Resources department.