Holistic Defender I: Assistant Public Defender

Kalamazoo Defender; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 79,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care coverage

Retirement plan (403(b) and Roth)

Paid time off

Parental leave

Employee Assistance Program

Flexible Spending Accounts

Job summary

Kalamazoo Defender is seeking a full-time Assistant Public Defender I to provide indigent defense in Kalamazoo County Courts, primarily handling misdemeanor cases under supervision. Requires JD and Michigan license or waiver eligibility, with a commitment to holistic defense and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.

The role emphasizes zealous representation, training participation, and maintaining detailed case notes, while working with investigators and external partners to support

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate licensed to practice law in Michigan in good standing or eligible for waiver.
• Excellent references and solid performance in law school and internships.
• Strong commitment to Kalamazoo Defender's mission and values.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities, those struggling with addiction, and those experiencing mental health crises.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal representation for indigent clients in Kalamazoo County courts, focusing on misdemeanor cases.
• Handle a weekly arraignment docket.
• Adhere to MIDC Standards of Compliance.
• Engage in continuing legal education and participate in internal training opportunities.
• Meet with clients promptly, identify goals and special needs, and refer to Village services and collaborate with the defense team.
• Review charging instruments, police reports, and other discovery materials to develop case strategies.
• Identify areas needing further investigation and coordinate with the Chief Defender to employ investigators or experts.
• Research legal issues and litigate as necessary.
• Negotiate with the prosecution and communicate developments with clients.
• Prepare for and litigate cases in trial, maintaining current knowledge of appropriate support functions.
• Maintain organized electronic case files.
• Participate in or administer legal clinics in community forums.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Diversity & inclusion

Bilingual abilities

Education

Juris Doctorate

Job description

Kalamazoo Defender is seeking a full-time Assistant Public Defender I to provide indigent defense in Kalamazoo County Courts, primarily handling misdemeanor cases under supervision. Requires JD and Michigan license or waiver eligibility, with a commitment to holistic defense and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.

The role emphasizes zealous representation, training participation, and maintaining detailed case notes, while working with investigators and external partners to support