Closing Date: 12th June, 2026

Description:

Introduction:
The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (OPD) seeks an experienced, zealous, dedicated, and demonstrated leader to serve as the Supervising Attorney in District IV's Charles County office. OPD is committed to building a culturally diverse staff and strongly encourages people historically underrepresented in the practice of law to apply.

District IV (Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary's Public Defender offices) are busy, rural public defender offices with approximately 30+ attorneys and staff in total with 14+ employees specifically located in Charles County. OPD strives to achieve Justice, Fairness, and Dignity for All. Our employees are committed to the core values of a culture of excellence, client-centered representation, and tenacious advocacy, and are united as a team in achieving the OPD's mission.

Overview:
The Supervising Attorney combines their demonstrated dedication to the representation of indigent clients with 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 is involved in the day-to-day operations and supervision of attorneys, maintains an active caseload, interfaces with the Judiciary, and helps promote community engagement in the county. This position will be primarily located in La Plata, Maryland supervising attorneys handling District and Circuit Court matters; however, members of the supervision team may provide coverage to the other counties within the District.

Grade
23

Location of Position:
Charles County, Md

Main Purpose of Job
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Reports to The District Public Defender and Deputy District Public Defender.
Works Closely with The Other Leadership Team Members to Maintain a High Standard of Representation by Ensuring Accountability While Fostering Mentorship, Teamwork, and Communication.
Actively Consults with Attorneys Regarding Case Preparation and Trial Strategy.
Fosters a Culture of Excellence, Resourcefulness, and Zealousness Amongst Attorneys and Staff.
Ensures Accountability Through the Supervision and Regular Evaluation of Attorney and Staff Performance.
Participates with Leadership Teams in Interviewing and Hiring New Attorneys.
Works with Other Agencies and Entities Involved in The Criminal Justice System to Help Meet the Needs of Clients.
Works Closely with The Training Division and Other Statewide Divisions to Ensure Effective Representation Through the Development of Relevant Policies, Practices, and Training (including Conducting Regular In-House Training Programs).
Contributes to And Seeks Professional Development Through Statewide and In-House Training and Trial Skills Programs.
Works Collaboratively with All Team Members (including Support Staff, Supervisors, Investigators, Social Workers, and Experts) to Achieve the Best Result for Each Client.
Maintains an Active Caseload.
Travel to St. Mary's and Calvert County Offices as Needed.
Other Duties as Assigned by The State Public Defender.

Minimum Qualifications:
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 Preferred).
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.