OVERVIEW OF THE POSITION
MOPD Juvenile Defenders provide consistent client-centered representation to their clients from their first court appearance through their entire case. This vertical representation model leads to deep and lasting client relationships and continuity of representation across years and cases. Attorneys work in conjunction with social workers 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.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
● Represent youth at intake, detention, adjudication, disposition, and post-disposition hearings.
● Represent juveniles and emerging adults (18-22) in circuit court matters including transfer hearings, pre-trial hearings, jury trials, and sentencings.
● Work to identify and advocate for solutions to systemic issues.
● Work collaboratively with social workers, experts, and core staff to assist clients and their families in matters related to housing, education, school discipline, mental health, institutional, and other collateral matters that contribute to deepening system involvement.
● Investigate, develop, and litigate novel and cutting-edge Constitutional arguments in order to advance and expand the rights of young people in contact with the juvenile justice system.
● Competently and resourcefully prepare for and manage an active caseload.
● Effectively, proactively, and compassionately communicate with clients, family members, team members, colleagues, community resources, and service providers to ensure optimal outcomes and resolve challenges in an open, constructive, and professional manner.
● Continuously seek professional and personal development through trainings, CLEs, and trial skills courses.
● Other duties as assigned by the State Public Defender.
SALARY
Salary is dependent on experience and the State of Maryland salary rules will apply to any offer made. This would be a lateral transfer for MOPD attorneys.
Assistant Public Defender II: $96,227.00-$136,003.00 (Grade 21: Step 8-Step 26)
Assistant Public Defender III- $106,620.00-$145,151.00 (Grade 22: Step 10-Step 26)
BENEFITS
The Maryland Office of the Public Defender offers a generous benefits package that includes excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance. Benefits also include retirement savings, life insurance, and the option to participate in supplemental retirement options. MOPD Employees receive 6 days of personal leave, 15 days of sick leave, and at least 10 days of annual leave each calendar year in addition to paid holidays, and parental leave.
For more details and a full list of benefits as an employee with the Maryland Office of the Public Defender click here.