• Assistant Public Defender – Level I – First Year Salary: $72,450

    Kalamazoo Defender is an independent non-profit organization that provides legal representation to the adult indigent population charged with a crime within Kalamazoo County. We take a holistic approach, employing compassionate professionals who work with our clients to identify and address additional needs beyond their legal case. In collaboration with our robust network of area service providers, we aim to connect our clients to relevant support services. Our mission is rooted in the conviction that poverty and various forms of discrimination put our clients on inequitable footing within and beyond our criminal justice system. Our job is to be their zealous defender in the face of these systemic barriers, fighting for them in court but also organizing care for them in our community.

    THE JOB: Kalamazoo Defender is seeking a dedicated First Year Attorney to provide indigent defense services within Kalamazoo County Courts. The attorney will manage a misdemeanor caseload under the supervision of the Misdemeanor Supervisor. Responsibilities include covering arraignment shifts, meeting with clients, negotiating with prosecutors, and litigating cases as necessary. The attorney will participate in training, maintain detailed case notes, and adhere to MIDC Standards of Compliance. Embracing a holistic, client-centered approach, the attorney will demonstrate a commitment to indigent defense while receiving mentorship from more senior attorneys and contributing to the overall success of the defense team. Candidates are expected to prepare for and take the bar exam at the next available opportunity if not already admitted.

    RESPONSIBILITIES:

    • Provide legal representation for indigent clients in Kalamazoo County courts, focusing on misdemeanor cases.
      • Handle arraignment docket weekly.
      • Adhere to MIDC Standards of Compliance.
      • Engage in continuing legal education.
      • Meet with clients promptly, identifying their goals and special needs, and making referrals to Village services when appropriate. 11/16/23
      • Review charging instruments, police reports, and other discovery materials to develop case strategies.
      • Identify areas of the case that need further investigation and coordinate with the Chief Defender to employ investigators or experts.
      • Research legal issues and litigate as necessary.
      • Negotiate with the prosecution and communicate developments with clients.
      • Prepare for and litigate cases in trial, handling all legal issues that arise, in collaboration with the Misdemeanor Supervisor.
      • Maintain availability to other staff members for consultation and education; participate in training programs; maintain current knowledge of appropriate support functions.
      • Maintain accurate, complete and well-organized electronic case files.
      • Participate in or administer legal clinics held in community forums.
      • Maintain open communication with all members of the defense team, including Paralegals, Client Navigators, Mitigation Specialists, Investigators, and Reception.
      • Embrace a holistic, client-centered approach for criminal defense.
      • Demonstrate a commitment to indigent defense.
      • Perform any other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall effectiveness and success of the defense team.

    BENEFITS:

    • Health care coverage including medical, dental, and vision, with employee premiums covered at 100%.
      • Retirement program offering both 403B and Roth options with employer match of 1.5 times employee contributions up to 5%.
      • Five weeks of paid time off (pro-rated for start date), paid holiday closures, and additional paid parental leave program.
      • Robust employee assistance program that includes services for all household members.
      • Optional Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts.
      • An opportunity to work alongside passionate, mission-driven individuals in a dynamic and innovative holistic legal program, backed by a county capable of maximizing Kalamazoo Defender’s impact.

    HOW TO APPLY: Please send your resume, a cover letter, and your unofficial transcript to Jobs@KalamazooDefender.org or to the following address:

    Kalamazoo Defender

    Attn: Human Resources

    151 S Rose St – Ste 300

    Kalamazoo, MI 49007

    Requirements
    QUALIFICATIONS: • A Juris Doctorate received within the last 12-months and good standing to practice law in Michigan with supervision under the Michigan Court Rule 8.120. • Compelling references and a solid performance in law school and internships. • Court experience, particularly with criminal proceedings, a plus. • Administrative and supervisory experience welcome. • Experience in a public defender office welcome. • Demonstrated commitment to the holistic model at the heart of Kalamazoo Defender’s mission, vision, and values. • High levels of professionalism, collaboration, integrity, and compassion. 11/16/23 • Excellent verbal and written communication abilities. • Ability to maintain complete and accurate files and timely case notes. • Ability to prioritize work tasks while working both collaboratively and independently. • Familiarity with the communities from which our clients come. • Ability to engage and work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. • Demonstrated commitment to cultural awareness and working within an anti-racist framework.
    Job Contact
    Brittany Chambers
    2692505000 jobs@kalamazoodefender.org