Overview of the position
The Supervising Attorney combines 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 focused on a client-centered approach to representation. The Supervising Attorney uses their strong leadership and supervision skills to cultivate and sustain a culture of excellence, respect, and positivity while simultaneously ensuring the efficient day-to-day operations of the office. This position will be primarily located in one of the four county offices and will be charged with the day-to-day operations of that office; however, members of the supervision team are required to provide coverage to the other counties within the district.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Reports to the District Public Defender and Deputy Public Defender of District II.
- Works closely with the District II leadership team to maintain a high standard of representation through 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).
- Maintains an active caseload.
- Performs other duties as determined by the State Public Defender and District Public Defender.
Training and Qualifications
- Demonstrated commitment to zealous and comprehensive public defense.
- Excellent writing, research, and oral advocacy skills.
- A desire to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with constructive feedback and performance evaluations.
- Substantial criminal litigation experience and strong trial skills (a minimum of 3 years felony experience).
- Commitment to addressing systemic inadequacies and inequities in the criminal justice system.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, adversaries, clients, and family members, irrespective of differences in backgrounds and lived experiences.
- Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to manage dynamic teams and high-volume caseloads.
- Demonstrated leadership, mentorship, supervisory, client advocacy, and management abilities.
- Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or Bar of another state. Attorneys barred in another state must become a member of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of the start date.
BENEFITS
Salary and Benefits
This is a promotion opportunity for current MOPD attorneys at Grade 22 or below. Salary is dependent on experience and salary rules will apply to State of Maryland employees.
Assistant Public Defender, Supervisor: starting at $120, 399.00 (Grade 23, Step 13).
Please visit the State of Maryland Employee’s page here to review benefit information.