Seasoned Public Defender — Zealous Criminal Advocate

State of Maryland; Frederick (MD); On-site; USD 99,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks experienced litigators to serve as Assistant Public Defenders in District XI, covering Frederick and Washington Counties. The role requires zeal, strong advocacy, and commitment to client-centered representation in all stages of criminal cases.

Candidates must have Maryland Bar admission or be willing to join within 18 months; felony jury trial experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated commitment to serving communities historically underserved.
• Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Clear dedication to upending systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal legal system.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, diverse, team-oriented environment.
• Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills to handle a high caseload.
• Criminal jury trial experience required; felony jury trial experience preferred.
• Active Maryland Bar membership or eligibility and plan to join Maryland Bar within 18 months.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in all stages of the criminal case including bail hearings, motions hearings, and trial, and post-trial hearings.
• Ensure clients are heard and respected.
• Conduct legal research and analysis for trial preparation and problem resolution.
• Draft reports, memoranda, briefs, motions, and correspondence for clients.
• Communicate with clients, team members, and service providers to ensure optimal outcomes.
• Counsel clients on changes in law and court decisions; advise on legal issues.
• Negotiate with prosecutors, judges, and stakeholders to resolve cases favorably.
• Manage a full caseload competently and independently.
• Pursue ongoing professional development through trainings.

Skills

Legal research

Oral advocacy

Interpersonal skills

Organization

Jury trial experience

Bar admission

Job description

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks experienced litigators to serve as Assistant Public Defenders in District XI, covering Frederick and Washington Counties. The role requires zeal, strong advocacy, and commitment to client-centered representation in all stages of criminal cases.

Candidates must have Maryland Bar admission or be willing to join within 18 months; felony jury trial experience preferred.