Entry-Level Public Defender – Criminal Defense

Quasi-Independent Agencies

Bangor (ME)

On-site

USD 75,000 - 106,000

Full time

5 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid holidays

Sick leave

Vacation leave

Retirement plan

Parental leave

Dental insurance

gym reimbursement

Job summary

The Maine Commission on Public Defense Services seeks an Assistant Defender II in Bangor, pairing a commitment to indigent defense with the support of a public defender office. The entry-level position welcomes recent JD graduates or students close to graduation planning to sit for the next bar exam, offering growth within a mission-driven team.

Responsibilities include research, writing, and advocacy for indigent defendants, with travel and courtroom work integral to daily duties.

Qualifications

Must have or be in final year of a Juris Doctor program from an ABA-accredited school.
Plan to take the next available bar exam or have license to practice in Maine within 12 months of hire.
Ability to work collaboratively with attorneys, investigators, and support staff.

Responsibilities

Assist attorneys with legal research and writing before admission to bar.
Represent indigent criminal defendants vigorously and ethically after admission.
Handle misdemeanor cases initially, with potential to take on less serious felonies.
Conduct client interviews and maintain case records to support effective representation.
Research legal issues and draft clear motions supporting dispositions.
Develop case theories aligned with facts and the law; willing to try appropriate cases.
Travel to various locations as required; perform duties in office and courtroom settings.