Entry-Level Public Defender – Harford County

State of Maryland; Maryland; On-site; USD 80,000 - 98,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Lateral transfer for internal candidi

State employee benefits

Job summary

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks experienced litigators to join the Harford County office as Assistant Public Defenders. This is a full-time, state employment position focused on zealous client-centered representation in district court cases across Maryland.

Applicants must be ready to learn, train, and maintain exceptional trial skills while collaborating with social workers, investigators, and core staff.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated commitment to serving communities pushed to the margins.
• Dedication to upending systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal justice system.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills across diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills for a high caseload.
• Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or Bar of another state; out-of-state attorneys must become Maryland Bar members within 18 months.

Responsibilities

• Passionate and zealous representation of clients at all stages of the criminal process, including trial, bail review, violation of probation, and other hearings.
• Ensure clients are consistently heard and respected.
• Conduct legal research and analysis on laws, rules, decisions, and precedents.
• Communicate effectively with clients, team members, colleagues, and service providers.
• Counsel and advise clients on changes in law and outcomes of cases.
• Negotiate with prosecutors to resolve cases favorably for the client.
• Manage a full caseload.
• Pursue ongoing professional development through trainings and CLEs.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Public Defender.

Skills

Zealous advocacy

Trial skills

Team collaboration

Legal research

Client-centered representation

Education

Active Maryland Bar admission

Job description

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks experienced litigators to join the Harford County office as Assistant Public Defenders. This is a full-time, state employment position focused on zealous client-centered representation in district court cases across Maryland.

Applicants must be ready to learn, train, and maintain exceptional trial skills while collaborating with social workers, investigators, and core staff.