Attorney - St. Louis Appellate/Post Conviction Relief

About the role

The Division of Appellate/Post-Conviction Relief within the Missouri State Public Defender (MSPD) is a vital branch of defense services, dedicated to safeguarding the constitutional rights of citizens and ensuring the fairness and legality of the criminal justice process. With a mission to uphold the principles of justice, the division serves as a guardian of due process, meticulously monitoring and providing quality control throughout all stages of criminal proceedings. Operating from six district offices strategically located in St. Louis, Kansas City, and Columbia—each in close proximity to Missouri's appellate courts—the division is at the forefront of legal challenges within the state. Attorneys within this division passionately advocate for indigent citizens convicted of felony offenses, handling a wide array of cases ranging from direct appeals to post-conviction challenges and appeals, including aggressive representation for death-row clients at both state and federal levels.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality legal representation to indigent clients convicted of felony offenses.
• Handle direct appeals to the Missouri Court of Appeals and post-conviction actions in circuit courts.
• Conduct thorough legal research to support clients' cases.
• Draft persuasive briefs, motions, and other pleadings for submission to appellate and circuit courts.
• Maintain regular communication with clients to keep them informed about the progress of their cases.
• Provide legal advice and guidance to clients regarding their rights and options throughout the appellate process.
• Represent clients in hearings and proceedings in circuit courts.
• Present oral arguments before appellate courts to advocate for clients' rights and interests.
• Collaborate with other attorneys and legal professionals to develop effective legal strategies.
• Manage a caseload of appellate and post-conviction cases efficiently and effectively.
• Ensure all deadlines and court requirements are met in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records and documentation.

Requirements

Licensed to practice law in the State of Missouri, awaiting bar results, or transferring bar license from a different state.

Experience in appellate and post-conviction litigation preferred.

Strong legal research and writing skills.

Excellent oral advocacy skills, including the ability to present persuasive arguments in court.

Able to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment.

Commitment to providing zealous advocacy for indigent clients and upholding principles of justice and fairness.

Knowledge of criminal law, procedure, and appellate rules applicable in Missouri.

Demonstrated dedication to public service and defending the rights of marginalized populations.

Ability to handle sensitive and complex legal issues with professionalism and integrity.

Qualifications

Master's degree in law (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.

Admission to practice law in the State of Missouri, awaiting bar results, or transferring bar license from a different state.

Skills

Strong legal research and writing skills.

Excellent oral advocacy skills, including the ability to present persuasive arguments in court.

Benefits

This is a full-time position based in St. Louis City.

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.

Schedule

This is a full-time position based in St. Louis City.