Lead Assistant Capital Defender (PDIII) - K0245004

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. BIDS does not sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa.

About the role

The Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services is accepting applications for the position of Lead Assistant Capital Defender (PD III) in the Capital Habeas Defender Office in Kansas City, Kansas. This role is for attorneys with a preferred minimum of 5 years of experience who have demonstrated the ability to independently handle all severity levels of cases and the most complex matters with supervision.

Who We Are

The Kansas Capital Habeas Office (KCHO) is a specialty office within the Kansas Public Defense system. Our mission is to provide high-quality representation to persons sentenced to death after a trial. Our team of highly dedicated attorneys and staff identify inadequacies in the provision of legal assistance to clients charged with capital murder and challenge the fairness of the trial and appellate proceedings that delivered a sentence of death by lethal injection.

Responsibilities

• Handle all severity level cases and complex statutory, procedural, and constitutional issues.
• Exhibit advanced litigation skills, including comprehensive motions practice.
• Assume informal leadership roles, support office management, and assist in the professional development of less experienced attorneys and staff.
• Assist with agency-wide needs as defined by the Administrative Office when called upon by the Chief Public Defender.
• Maintain the highest standards of professionalism, inspire others, and contribute to a positive, safe, and supportive office culture.
• Coordinate with supporting personnel to provide client-centered, holistic representation.
• Manage complex litigation, emergency or crisis situations, and frequent interruptions.
• Interact respectfully with clients, co-workers, and colleagues.

Requirements

• Graduate from an ABA-accredited law school and licensed attorney active and in good standing in the State of Kansas at the time of employment (or willingness to seek admission immediately upon hire).
• Preferred minimum of 5 years of experience in criminal defense or other comparable legal practice.
• Valid driver’s license where courts and jails are not within walking distance of the office.
• Maintain licensure as an active attorney in good standing in Kansas.

Skills

• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency with electronic devices, e-filing systems, and case management systems.
• Strong time management and organizational skills to avoid unnecessary delays in client cases.
• Ability to process, organize, and manage complex litigation.
• Academic curiosity about criminal law and procedure.
• Commitment to treating every client, witness, and colleague with dignity and respect.
• Client-centered practice with a focus on confidentiality and professional ethics.
• Occasional travel to other work locations, including courts and jails.

Pay

Compensation for this position ranges from $75,000.00 to $101,000.00, depending on experience or qualifications.

Benefits

• Comprehensive coverage under the State Employee Health Plan (SEHP) for medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision starting on the first day of employment.
• Tax-advantage accounts, including Health Savings Account, Health Reimbursement Account, and Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Additional voluntary benefits: Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness Insurance.
• Access to the HealthQuest Health Center in Topeka for in-person and virtual healthcare services.
• Sick and vacation leave.
• Work-life balance programs: paid parental leave, military leave, jury leave, and funeral leave.
• Paid State holidays.
• Access to fitness centers in select locations.
• Employee discounts with the STAR Program.
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs.

Employment is subject to Governor’s salary approval and confirmation of licensure as an active attorney in good standing in Kansas (or successful admission to the Kansas Bar). A valid Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate is required within 10 days of an offer letter.