Closing Date: 30th June, 2026

Description:

Introduction:
The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) has an opening for experienced and zealous litigator to serve as Assistant Public Defenders in District III: Upper Eastern Shore that serves Talbot, Caroline, Kent, Cecil, and Queen Anne's counties. District Three attorneys are generally assigned to one specific office in the district but must remain flexible to provide coverage to the other counties within District III. The attorney in this position will combine their demonstrated commitment with their strong and zealous litigation skills to provide exceptional representation on behalf of their clients. We are committed to building a culturally diverse staff and strongly encourage people historically underrepresented in the practice of law to apply.

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. MOPD seeks candidates who will join us in providing compassionate, competent, zealous, and client-centered representation to all of our clients. Learn more about our mission and commitment to

diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Grade
ASTD22; ASTD21

Location Of Position:
Talbot, Caroline, Kent, Cecil, and Queen Anne's

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 mixture of both felony and misdemeanor caseloads. 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 District III at the time of offer. Attorneys should be available to start within one month after receiving an offer.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Represent clients in all stages of their criminal case including bail hearings, motions hearings, and trial, and post-trial hearings.
Ensures clients are consistently heard and respected.
Conducts 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.
Drafts and prepares 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.
Counsels and advises clients on changes in law, court decisions, and legal issues.
Negotiates with prosecutors, judges, and other stakeholders to establish agreements to resolve cases favorably for the client.
Competently, independently, and resourcefully manage a full caseload.
Continuously seek professional development by attending various training sessions.
Other duties as assigned by the Public Defender.

Minimum Qualifications:
Core Competencies And Requirements:

Demonstrated commitment to serving communities who have been pushed to the margins.
Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
Clear dedication to upending systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal legal system.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds and lived experiences.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, diverse, team-oriented environment.
Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to handle a high caseload.
Criminal jury trial experience required. Felony (cases involving complex issues and/or where clients are facing the possibility of a life sentence) jury trial experience is preferred.
Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or Bar of another state.

Attorneys barred in another state must become members of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of their start date with MOPD.