Public Defender: Motions & Appeals Specialist

Kalamazoo Defender; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 129,000 - 137,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care coverage (medical, dental,

Vision coverage

Life insurance

Disability coverage

Retirement program with 403(b)/Roth +

Job summary

Kalamazoo Defender is seeking a full‑time attorney to serve as a Motions & Appeals Specialist. This role focuses on developing and implementing policies, procedures, and practices to advance our appellate and motion work throughout Michigan courts.

Responsibilities include handling appeals, coordinating motion practices, and training staff to elevate the quality of indigent defense. This role requires a deep commitment to the holistic defense model and strong written advocacy, with reporting to

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate and active Michigan license in good standing.
• At least two years of criminal law practice in public defender, prosecutor, or private defense.
• Experience writing motions and appeals is strongly desired.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic office tech.

Responsibilities

• Assist with appeals and coordinate motion practices.
• Train staff on best practices for motions and appeals.
• Develop and share policies to improve appellate work across Michigan courts.
• Collaborate with leadership to implement holistic, client-centered defense.
• Maintain accurate electronic case files and timelines for filings.
• Contribute to case strategy and quality assurance across the team.

Skills

Criminal law

Motions & Appeals

Written advocacy

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Juris Doctorate (MI licensed)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Kalamazoo Defender is seeking a full‑time attorney to serve as a Motions & Appeals Specialist. This role focuses on developing and implementing policies, procedures, and practices to advance our appellate and motion work throughout Michigan courts.

Responsibilities include handling appeals, coordinating motion practices, and training staff to elevate the quality of indigent defense. This role requires a deep commitment to the holistic defense model and strong written advocacy, with reporting to