Closing Date: 14th August, 2026

Description:

Introduction:
The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks an experienced client-centered litigator and demonstrated leader to serve as the Supervising Attorney for the District II office serving the community of Somerset County. We are committed to building a culturally diverse staff and strongly encourage people historically underrepresented in the practice of law to apply.

The Worcester, Wicomico, Somerset, and Dorchester offices are small but busy rural public defender offices with a combined total of approximately 40+ attorneys and staff. 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.

Grade
23

Location Of Position:
Somerset County

11785 Summerset Avenue, Princess Anne, MD 21853

Main Purpose of Job
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's home base will be in Somerset County 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.

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).
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.