Massachusetts Public Defender Trial Attorney

Committee for Public Counsel Services; United States; On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) Public Defender Division seeks Trial Attorneys to provide criminal defense representation across Massachusetts in District and Superior Courts. Hiring will occur throughout 2026 and 2027 for immediate start dates and future openings, including Spring and Fall 2027.

We are committed to zealous advocacy, diversity, equity and inclusion, and to training new attorneys through comprehensive programs to ensure effective representation of indigent

Qualifications

• A demonstrated commitment to zealous advocacy for indigent clients.
• Strong interpersonal and analytical skills are required.
• Ability to work independently and in a team within a defense-oriented setting.

Responsibilities

• Interviewing clients
• Arraignment and bail advocacy
• Legal research and writing
• Pretrial investigation including visiting crime scenes and interviewing witnesses
• Preparing and arguing pretrial motions
• Dispositional investigations and advocacy
• Jury and bench trials
• Representation in interlocutory proceedings
• Collaborating with private attorneys when assigned
• Other duties as assigned

Skills

Zealous advocacy

Interpersonal skills

Analytical skills

Education

Massachusetts bar admission or eligible

Job description

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) Public Defender Division seeks Trial Attorneys to provide criminal defense representation across Massachusetts in District and Superior Courts. Hiring will occur throughout 2026 and 2027 for immediate start dates and future openings, including Spring and Fall 2027.

We are committed to zealous advocacy, diversity, equity and inclusion, and to training new attorneys through comprehensive programs to ensure effective representation of indigent