The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks an experienced and client-centered leader to serve as the Supervising Attorney at our District X office. District X is comprised of Carroll and Howard counties. Our Carroll and Howard County offices are busy rural public Defender offices with 30+ employees providing client-centered representation to juveniles and adults charged with misdemeanors and felonies. We are committed to building a culturally diverse staff and strongly encourages people historically underrepresented in the practice of law to apply.
MOPD’s vision is for Justice, Fairness, and Dignity for All. We are committed to our core values of a culture of excellence, client-centered representation, and tenacious advocacy, and remain united as a team in achieving our mission. At MOPD we use our legal education and experience to fight for justice and fairness, no matter what and we refuse to remain silent in the midst of human suffering. Our unique talents, identities, educational backgrounds, and perspectives guide us in representing our clients. We stand up against prejudice, systemic racism, and inequity in all of the spaces we occupy. Learn more about our mission and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Overview of the Position
The Supervising Attorney will combine their demonstrated dedication to the representation of indigent clients with their strong leadership and litigation skills to ensure the highest standard of client representation in a team-oriented environment. The Supervising Attorney will work in conjunction with other members of the leadership team in District X to train and develop the attorneys and ensure the efficient day-to-day operations of the office. This position will be primarily located in Howard County; however, the supervising attorneys will be required to provide coverage and travel to Carrol County as needed. The successful candidate will be able to begin their employment by July 1, 2024.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Reports to the District Public Defender and Deputy Public Defender of District X.
- Works closely with the leadership team to maintain a high standard of representation by ensuring accountability while fostering mentorship, teamwork, and communication.
- Supervises attorneys handling bail reviews, misdemeanor, juvenile, non-support, violation of probation, and felony cases as well as other professional and support staff.
- Monitors the attorney caseloads and the distribution of cases to ensure optimal client outcomes and attorney development.
- Actively consults with attorneys on case preparation and trial strategy.
- Identifies, assesses, and cultivates talent amongst attorneys.
- Ensures accountability through the regular evaluation of attorney and staff performance.
- Fosters a culture of excellence, resourcefulness, and zealousness amongst attorneys and staff.
- Handles and approves transcript requests, investigation requests, and panel determinations.
- Works closely with the Training Division and other Statewide Divisions to ensure effective representation through the development of relevant policies, practices, and trainings (including conducting regular in-house training programs).
- Works with other agencies and entities involved in the criminal justice system to help meet the needs of clients.
- Participates with leadership teams in interviewing and hiring new Misdemeanor Division and Felony Division attorneys.
- Maintains an active caseload.
- Performs other duties as determined by the State Public Defender.