PUBLIC DEFENDER INTAKE SPECIALIST Series Public Defender Intake Specialist I & II

As a State agency, the Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. Applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors, complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment, operate a computer and other office equipment, and have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation. Reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request.

About the Role

The Public Defender Intake Specialist I & II serves as the first point of contact for clients interacting with the Office of the Public Defender. Professionalism and strong people skills are essential. This full-time, entry-level position requires travel between the Washington and Frederick offices, as well as to the county detention center for client interviews. Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Answer phones and provide customer service to clients and visitors.
• Conduct data entry and interview clients to gather information relevant to case files.
• Determine client eligibility for representation by the Office of the Public Defender.
• Travel to various locations, including courtrooms, offices, and the county detention center.

Requirements

Public Defender Intake Specialist I

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: Six months of experience interviewing persons to obtain and verify background or financial information.
• Substitutions:
  • Additional experience (year-for-year) may substitute for education.
  • 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university may substitute for experience.
  • U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a non-commissioned officer in Compliance Inspection and Support classifications may substitute (year-for-year) for experience.

Public Defender Intake Specialist II

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: Eighteen months of experience interviewing persons to obtain and verify background or financial information.
• Substitutions:
  • Additional experience (year-for-year) may substitute for education.
  • 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university may substitute for six months of experience.
  • A Bachelor’s degree may substitute for all required experience.
  • U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a non-commissioned officer in Compliance Inspection and Support classifications may substitute (year-for-year) for experience.

Employees in this role may be required to operate a motor vehicle and must possess a valid Maryland driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in data entry and strong communication skills.
• Experience working in a fast-paced retail or office environment.
• Customer service experience and a strong interest in working with indigent defendants and their families.
• Experience with CJIS and/or JIS systems.

Benefits

This position offers the full range of State of Maryland benefits.