Assistant Attorney General - Criminal Appeals

State of Colorado•Denver, CO

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Criminal Appeals Section is seeking an intellectually curious attorney who thrives on researching and analyzing the law. This position requires exceptional writing ability; a passion for advocacy; and strong oral communication skills. While each of our attorneys is individually responsible for writing their own briefs, this is a collaborative team that regularly works together to resolve novel questions of law; discuss legislative proposals; and serve the people of Colorado. If you are looking for a challenging role that will allow you to grow with a great team, this position is for you! The Criminal Appeals Section is Colorado’s prosecutorial authority at the appellate level of the criminal justice system. Our primary function is to serve the people of Colorado, as well as the interests of justice, by ethically and efficiently defending felony convictions before the Colorado Court of Appeals and Supreme Court. We do this by writing answer briefs and orally arguing cases, which range from relatively minor postconviction issues to complex white-collar crime, homicides, child abuse, and sexual assaults. Each attorney is individually responsible for reading the record, conducting legal research on all of the defendant’s claims, and crafting responsive arguments to explain why a conviction or sentence should be affirmed. In addition to writing answer briefs and conducting oral argument, our attorneys often provide support to other sections in the office through moot court sessions, legislative review, and legal editing. Attorneys are also expected to interact with stakeholders, including local district attorneys, crime victims, and victim advocates on a regular basis.

Requirements

Must be admitted to the Colorado Bar or be clearly eligible to waive into the Colorado Bar and be in good standing at the time of application.
Exceptional writing, research, and analytical abilities.
Strong oral communication skills.
Eagerness to solve complex legal problems.
An ability to manage an independent case load.
Developed collaborative skills and commitment to working as part of a team.
At least one year of experience as a practicing attorney (includes fellowship or clerkship experience). Candidates without one year of experience may be considered if their application demonstrates a strong background in research, writing, and oral advocacy.
Must provide at least one writing sample.

Responsibilities

Defending felony convictions before the Colorado Court of Appeals and Supreme Court.
Writing answer briefs.
Orally arguing cases.
Reading the record.
Conducting legal research on all of the defendant’s claims.
Crafting responsive arguments to explain why a conviction or sentence should be affirmed.
Providing support to other sections in the office through moot court sessions, legislative review, and legal editing.
Interacting with stakeholders, including local district attorneys, crime victims, and victim advocates.

Benefits

Competitive medical, dental and vision health plans.
Employer-paid life insurance.
Paid holidays.
Retirement plans with Colorado PERA.
Vacation and sick leave earned each month.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness program eligibility.
Free access to an on-site fitness center.
Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible work schedules.
Professional development opportunities.
Employee discount program.
Employer-paid mental health and counseling services through Colorado State Employee Assistance Program.
Employer-paid annual attorney registration dues.
Employer-provided access to professional development training and CLE through PLI, Department of Law University and other entities.