Assistant District Attorney – Appellate Unit

Berkshire District Attorney; Pittsfield, Northern (MA, KY); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 93,000; Full time

Job summary

The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office in Massachusetts seeks a full-time Assistant District Attorney to join the Appellate Unit. The attorney will handle direct appeals, manage post-conviction matters, and assist trial teams on evidentiary issues.

Ideal candidates have a JD, Massachusetts Bar admission, and a strong interest in criminal appellate work, with excellent written and oral advocacy skills and a collaborative mindset.

Qualifications

• JD from accredited law school and member in good standing of the Massachusetts Bar.
• Interest in criminal law and procedure, and appellate work.
• Ability to work independently and be part of a team.
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills, strong work ethics and excellent organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to demonstrate a connection to the communities we serve and have an interest in supporting a respectful and inclusive work environment.

Responsibilities

• Handle all phases of direct appeals in the Massachusetts Appeals Court and Supreme Judicial Court.
• Maintain a varied caseload involving post-conviction matters, including motions to revise and revoke sentences, withdraw a guilty plea, or for a new trial.
• Assist trial attorneys with motions to suppress and other evidentiary issues, motions to dismiss, motions in limine, and drafting jury instructions.
• Analyze and develop policy initiatives and proposed legislation on behalf of the District Attorney.
• Opportunity to second chair Superior Court attorneys in the prosecution of homicides or other major felonies.
• Work under the direction of the Appellate Chief.

Skills

Attention to detail

Oral advocacy

Written advocacy

Team player

Organizational skills

Education

JD from accredited law school

Massachusetts Bar admission

Job description

The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office is seeking to hire a full-time attorney who will join the Appellate Unit as an Assistant District Attorney. Attorneys from diverse personal and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Attention to detail, careful legal research, and efficient and timely completion of briefs and memoranda of law.
• Handle all phases of direct appeals in the Massachusetts Appeals Court and Supreme Judicial Court.
• Maintain a varied caseload involving a variety of post-conviction matters, including, but not limited to:
  • Motions to revise and revoke sentences
  • Motions to withdraw a guilty plea
  • Motions for a new trial
• Assist trial attorneys with motions to suppress and other evidentiary issues, motions to dismiss, motions in limine, and drafting jury instructions.
• May also be required to analyze and develop policy initiatives and proposed legislation on behalf of the District Attorney.
• Opportunity to second chair Superior Court attorneys in the prosecution of homicides or other major felonies.
• Will work under the direction of the Appellate Chief

Job Qualifications

• JD from accredited law school and member in good standing of the Massachusetts Bar;
• Interest in criminal law and procedure, and appellate work
• Ability to work independently and be part of a team
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills, strong work ethics and excellent organizational skills with attention to detail
• Ability to demonstrate a connection to the communities we serve and have an interest in supporting a respectful and inclusive work environment.

Salary: $85,000 to $93,000 commensurate with experience.

Full-time positions offer a state benefit package that includes medical/dental/vision insurance, life and disability insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation, personal and sick leave. All ADA positions qualify for public service loan forgiveness.

All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of background check. All positions serve at the pleasure of the District Attorney.

Berkshire District Attorney’s Office is an EEO Employer with a firm commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in hiring practices.