At a Glance
- Tasks: Represent clients in criminal cases, conduct legal research, and negotiate with stakeholders.
- Company: Join the Maryland Office of the Public Defender, dedicated to social justice and community support.
- Benefits: Gain professional development opportunities and work in a supportive, team-oriented environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by advocating for marginalized communities and challenging systemic inequities.
- Qualifications: Must have trial experience, strong advocacy skills, and be a member of the Maryland Bar.
- Other info: Office placements are flexible based on MOPD needs; start within a month of offer.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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Eastern Region Experience (Assistant Public Defender II & III), Kent
Client: Maryland.gov
Location: Kent, United Kingdom
Job Category: Other
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EU work permit required: Yes
Job Reference: 048f3574331e
Job Views: 4
Posted: 29.06.2025
Expiry Date: 13.08.2025
Job Description:
Main Purpose of Job
OVERVIEW OF THE POSITION: The positions require exceptional trial skills, innovative thinking, investigative skills, and the ability to work independently in managing an active case load of district, felony, and other specialty cases such as juvenile, civil non-support, and violation of probation. Attorneys work in conjunction with social workers, investigators, experts, and core staff in a team-oriented environment. Attorneys must be able to balance a client-centered approach to representation with advocacy to address systemic inequity and the collateral consequences that lead to deeper system involvement. Office placements will be determined by the needs of MOPD at the time of offer. Attorneys should be available to start within one month after receiving an offer.
POSITION DUTIES
- Represent clients in all stages of their criminal case including bail hearings, motions hearing, trial, and post-trial hearings.
- Ensure clients are consistently heard and respected.
- Conduct legal research and analysis including changes in laws, legislation, procedural rules, court decisions, and case precedents in preparation for trial and to determine/anticipate legal problems and propose resolutions.
- Draft and prepare reports, memoranda in opposition, briefs, motions, and correspondence for clients.
- Effectively and compassionately communicate with clients, team members, colleagues, and service providers to ensure optimal outcomes for clients.
- Counsel and advise clients on changes in law, court decisions, and legal issues.
- Negotiate with prosecutors, judges, and other stakeholders to establish agreements to resolve cases favorably for the client.
- Manage a full caseload independently and resourcefully.
- Seek professional development by attending various training sessions.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the District Public Defender.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
CORE COMPETENCIES AND REQUIREMENTS:
- Demonstrated commitment to serving communities marginalized or pushed to the margins.
- Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
- Dedication to upending systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal legal system.
- Strong interpersonal skills and effective communication 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 involving complex issues or potential life sentences is preferred.
- Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or another state\’s bar. Attorneys barred in another state must become members of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of their start date.
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Eastern Region Experience (Assistant Public Defender II & III) employer: Maryland.gov
Contact Detail:
Maryland.gov Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Eastern Region Experience (Assistant Public Defender II & III)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific legal challenges faced by communities in the Eastern Region. Understanding local issues will help you demonstrate your commitment to serving marginalized groups during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former public defenders in Maryland. They can provide insights into the role and may even refer you to opportunities, which can give you an edge in the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on recent changes in laws and court decisions relevant to criminal defence. This knowledge will not only prepare you for potential interview questions but also show your proactive approach to legal advocacy.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your trial experience in detail. Be ready to share specific cases where you demonstrated exceptional trial skills and innovative thinking, as these are crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Eastern Region Experience (Assistant Public Defender II & III)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Assistant Public Defender II & III positions. Familiarise yourself with the specific skills needed, such as trial experience and legal research capabilities.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience, particularly in criminal law and trial advocacy. Emphasise any work you've done with marginalized communities and your commitment to social justice, as these are key aspects of the role.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for public defence and your understanding of systemic inequities in the legal system. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate your skills and dedication to the role.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your writing is clear and professional, as strong communication skills are essential for this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Maryland.gov
✨Showcase Your Trial Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous trial experiences in detail. Highlight specific cases where you demonstrated exceptional advocacy, particularly in complex situations. This will show your ability to handle the demands of the role.
✨Demonstrate Commitment to Social Justice
Articulate your dedication to serving marginalized communities and addressing systemic inequities. Share examples of how you've contributed to social justice initiatives or how your values align with the mission of the public defender's office.
✨Prepare for Legal Research Questions
Expect questions that assess your legal research and analytical skills. Be ready to discuss recent changes in laws or significant court decisions that could impact your work. This will demonstrate your proactive approach to staying informed.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with social workers and other professionals, highlight your teamwork skills. Provide examples of successful collaborations and how you effectively communicate with diverse team members to achieve optimal outcomes for clients.