Public Defender Trial Attorney — Advocate for Justice

State-of-Missour; Union (MO); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Defined pension plan

Generous leave and holidays

Health insurance coverage

Job summary

The Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) seeks a Public Defender Trial Attorney to provide zealous, high‑quality criminal defense for indigent clients across Missouri. You will handle cases from initial investigation through trial, building relationships with clients, interviewing witnesses, and presenting defenses in court.

The role emphasizes collaboration with a statewide team, continuous professional development through CLE, and serving diverse communities from urban to rural settings.

Qualifications

• Licensed to practice law in Missouri, or actively awaiting bar results or transferring a license.
• Demonstrated commitment to criminal defense and indigent clients.
• Strong communication, advocacy, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Advocate zealously for clients and maintain professional relationships.
• Investigate cases with interviews, evidence review, and discovery analysis.
• Keep clients informed about investigations, negotiations, and rulings.
• Appear regularly in court and litigate trials and hearings.
• Conduct legal research and draft motions, pleadings, and briefs.
• Prepare clients, witnesses, and documents for trial.
• Protect clients' interests with a holistic, client-centered approach.
• Collaborate with colleagues and staff to deliver comprehensive services.
• Attend CLE sessions to stay current with legal developments.

Skills

Client advocacy

Case investigation

Communication

Court appearances

Legal research

Trial preparation

Collaboration

CLE participation

Education

Missouri bar eligibility

Job description

The Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) seeks a Public Defender Trial Attorney to provide zealous, high‑quality criminal defense for indigent clients across Missouri. You will handle cases from initial investigation through trial, building relationships with clients, interviewing witnesses, and presenting defenses in court.

The role emphasizes collaboration with a statewide team, continuous professional development through CLE, and serving diverse communities from urban to rural settings.