APD: Motions & Appeals Specialist

Kalamazoo Defender•Kalamazoo, MI

2d•$128,500 - $137,096

About The Position

Kalamazoo Defender is seeking a full-time attorney to serve as a Motions and Appeals Specialist. This position develops and implements policies, procedures, and practices to advance appellate and motion work throughout Michigan courts. The attorney handles appeals, coordinates motion practices, and trains staff to improve indigent defense. The role does not carry an independent caseload; instead, it supports the legal staff and designs and leads monthly training sessions. The position reports directly to the Deputy Chief Defender and works closely with attorney leadership to establish and share best practices across the team. The successful candidate will be committed to holistic defense, zealous client representation, and strong communication with multidisciplinary defense team members. The role calls for a deep understanding of the Michigan appeals process, strong written advocacy, and a commitment to educating others to improve their motions and appeals. Kalamazoo Defender is an independent nonprofit providing legal representation to adults charged with crimes in Kalamazoo County who cannot afford counsel. Its holistic approach connects clients with relevant community support services and addresses needs beyond their legal cases. The organization’s mission centers on justice in court, care in the community, and dignity for clients facing systemic barriers.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate and licensure in good standing to practice law in Michigan.
At least two years of criminal law practice as a public defender, prosecutor, or private criminal defense attorney.
Lead trial counsel experience, or active second-chair experience managing a significant portion of the trial, in at least four felony criminal cases submitted to a jury; alternatively, a significant record of consistently high-quality trial-court representation and ability to handle a life-offense case.
Extensive experience litigating cases, with substantial high-quality criminal trial experience.
Thorough knowledge of Michigan procedures and practices regarding the practice of law.
Knowledge of the functions, duties, powers, limitations, and authority of Kalamazoo Defender.
Knowledge of legal research and report-presentation principles, methods, materials, and practices.
Experience handling cases involving substantial electronic discovery.
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
Strong commitment to Kalamazoo Defender’s mission and values.
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy, including the ability to recognize discrepancies, check work carefully, and understand the potential impact of errors.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, dependable follow-through, and the ability to manage competing priorities and time-sensitive deadlines.
Proficiency in keyboarding, Microsoft Office, and basic office technologies, with comfort learning and using new software, systems, and technology tools.
Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including people with disabilities, people struggling with addiction, and people experiencing mental health crises.
Ability to prioritize tasks while working collaboratively and independently.
Commitment to cultural awareness, professionalism, confidentiality, compassion, and integrity.

Nice To Haves

Experience writing motions and appeals is strongly desired.

Responsibilities

Provide and demonstrate a commitment to indigent defense services within Kalamazoo County courts.
Manage all appeals involving Kalamazoo Defender.
Stay current on legal developments and collaborate with attorney leadership to share updates with fellow Defenders.
Develop best practices for drafting motions and train fellow attorneys in effective techniques.
Consult with and assist other Defenders on case-specific motion issues, including motions in limine and other issues arising during trial.
Consult with and assist other Defenders at case-discussion meetings.
Create, maintain, and update an internally accessible motion bank for colleague Defenders.
Conduct training sessions on legal-related topics in coordination with attorney leadership.
Research, draft, and prepare persuasive motions, legal briefs, and appellate filings on behalf of clients, and review and strengthen written advocacy developed by fellow Defenders.
Develop and implement strategic approaches to motions and appeals that advance clients’ legal interests and expressed goals while supporting holistic, client-centered representation.
Develop and update timelines and checklists to aid the proper filing of appeals and motions.
Engage in continuing legal education.
Adhere to MIDC Standards of Compliance.
Maintain accurate, complete, and well-organized electronic case files and notes.
Handle assigned weekly arraignment docket shifts.
Collaborate with attorneys, paralegals, investigators, mitigation specialists, client navigators, reception staff, and other multidisciplinary defense team members to support holistic, client-centered representation.
Perform other assigned duties that contribute to the effectiveness and success of the defense team.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision coverage with employee premiums covered 100%.
Life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage.
Optional supplemental benefits, including voluntary life, accident, hospital indemnity, and critical illness insurance.
Retirement program with 403(b) and Roth options, with an employer match of five times employee contributions up to 5%.
Five weeks of paid time off, prorated for start date.
Paid holiday closures.
Additional paid parental leave program.
Employee Assistance Program and Health Advocate services available to all household members.
Optional Flexible Spending Accounts and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts.
Health Savings Account available with an eligible high-deductible health plan.
Potential childcare assistance for qualifying employees through Michigan Tri-Share, with costs shared by the employee, employer, and state.
Opportunity to work with mission-driven colleagues in a dynamic, innovative holistic legal program.