State of Maryland · 1 month ago
APD I & II - DECARCERATION INITIATIVE ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER SERIES
Maryland, United States
Full-time
Onsite
New Grad, Entry, Mid Level
$41.22/hr - $68.52/hr
0+ years expThe Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is a statewide independent agency dedicated to providing superior legal representation to indigent defendants. They are seeking a zealous advocate to serve in their Decarceration Initiative, representing individuals in circuit courts throughout Maryland on motions for reduction of sentence under the Second Look Act.
Government Administration
Responsibilities
Represent clients in circuit courts throughout the state on motions for reduction of sentence under Maryland’s Second Look Act through written motions and at hearings
Investigate and gather relevant facts and mitigation to compose detailed and comprehensive motions to advocate for clients’ release
Work with psychologists, social workers, and/or reentry specialists as needed to develop a release plan for clients
Compile data on cases and client outcomes
Effectively and compassionately communicate with clients, their family members and supporters, colleagues, and providers for optimal client outcomes
Regularly seek professional development through training, continuing legal education, and skills courses
Travel throughout the state is required
Other duties as assigned by the Director of the Decarceration Initiative or the Public Defender
Qualification
Required
Candidates shall be an Attorney and admitted to practice law in the State by the Supreme Court of Maryland at the time of appointment
A Juris Doctorate degree or equivalent degree from an accredited law school
Experience as a practicing attorney
Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or a bar of another state. (Individuals scheduled to be admitted to the bar in or before December 31, 2025, are welcome to apply.) Non-Maryland attorneys must commit to becoming a member of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of their start date
Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in general attorney classification or general attorney specialty codes in the legal and kindred group field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience and education
All applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors and possess the ability to complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment
Applicants must be able to work in various positions and travel to various courtrooms and office environments throughout the state
Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment
Applicants must have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation
Preferred
Excellent writing, research, and oral advocacy skills
Demonstrated commitment to serving marginalized communities
Clear dedication to upending systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal justice system
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds and experiences
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, diverse, team-oriented environment
Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to handle a demanding caseload in a timely and effective manner
Strong legal writing and oral advocacy skills
Benefits
Subsidized health benefits coverage for themselves and their dependents
Dental coverage
Accidental death and dismemberment insurance
Life insurance
Company
State of Maryland
Maryland is on the path to becoming the best state in the nation.
5001-10000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Michael Piercy
Senior Advisor for Program Innovation to the Chief Technology Officer State of Maryland, MDTHINK
Michele Thomas
Chief Technology Officer, State of Maryland
Company data provided by crunchbase