Attorney - Carthage

State of Missouri; Carthage (MO); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension plan

Paid leave

Health insurance

Job summary

Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) seeks attorneys to provide high-quality representation to indigent clients across Missouri. The role covers all phases of criminal matters, from investigation to trial, with a focus on advocacy and client-centered service.

Opportunities exist in diverse settings statewide, including urban and rural offices, with ongoing professional development and trial skills coursework to support justice and excellence in public defense.

Qualifications

• Missouri license to practice law or eligibility to transfer/reciprocity
• Strong communication and advocacy skills
• Ability to manage a diverse caseload with efficiency
• Willingness to work in varied settings and adapt
• Commitment to indigent defense and justice

Responsibilities

• Represent clients through all phases of criminal matters in Missouri, in court and at dockets.
• Develop and maintain professional relationships; provide comprehensive legal counsel.
• Conduct thorough case investigations including interviews and review of reports.
• Keep clients informed about investigations, negotiations, and court rulings.
• Attend court appearances and litigate all aspects of cases through trial.
• Prepare motions, pleadings, and briefs; conduct legal research.
• Prepare clients and witnesses for trial.
• Collaborate with colleagues to provide comprehensive legal services.
• Attend CLE sessions to stay updated on legal developments.

Skills

Legal advocacy

Criminal defense

Client communication

Investigation

Legal research

Trial preparation

Collaboration

CLE participation

Education

Licensed to practice law in Missouri

Job description

The Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) is dedicated to providing legal representation to citizens accused of or convicted of crimes in Missouri who cannot afford an attorney. MSPD operates statewide through district offices that are strategically located throughout the state, offering opportunities to work in diverse settings, from urban areas like Kansas City and St. Louis to more rural environments. With a team of about 700 professionals, including over 400 attorneys, MSPD handles diverse caseloads. Training is a top priority and MSPD ensures continuous professional development with distinguished, nationally recognized trial skills courses that equip public defenders for their commitment to justice.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients throughout all phases of criminal matters in Missouri, establishing professional relationships, advising and counseling them, conducting thorough case investigations, and appearing in court for scheduled dockets and appearances.
• Client Advocacy: Develop and maintain professional relationships through telephone communication, meetings, and institutional visits; provide comprehensive legal counsel and guidance at every stage of the case.
• Case Investigation: Conduct thorough investigations, including interviews with clients, witnesses, expert witnesses, and family members; review law enforcement reports and discovery materials to build a solid defense strategy.
• Communication and Transparency: Keep clients informed about the progress of investigations, negotiations, and court rulings; ensure open and transparent communication regarding their legal matters.
• Court Appearances: Attend regularly scheduled court dockets and all appearances; effectively litigate all aspects of each client's case through disposition at the trial court level.
• Legal Research and Document Preparation: Conduct legal research to stay abreast of statutes, regulations, and pertinent court decisions; prepare legal documents including motions, pleadings, and briefs for hearings, trials, and legal proceedings.
• Trial Preparation: Prepare cases, clients, and witnesses for trial, ensuring a comprehensive and strategic approach.
• Client Interests and Holistic Approach: Promote and protect the best interests of clients, incorporating a holistic approach to legal representation.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with colleagues and support staff to provide comprehensive legal services; foster a team‑oriented approach to enhance overall effectiveness.
• Continuing Legal Education: Attend CLE sessions as required to stay updated on legal developments and enhance professional skills.

Qualifications

• Licensed to practice law in the State of Missouri, awaiting bar results, or transferring bar license from a different state.
• Passion for criminal defense and commitment to justice for indigent clients.
• Strong communication and advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage a diverse caseload with efficiency and attention to detail.
• Willingness to work in varied settings and adapt as necessary.
• Collaborative spirit to work effectively with support staff and legal team members.
• Openness to continuous learning and participation in training programs.

Compensation and Benefits

This is a full‑time position based in Carthage. 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. The salary listed reflects the base pay rate; verified prior state service, subject to applicable eligibility requirements, may increase total compensation.