APD: Motions & Appeals Specialist

Kalamazoo Defender•Kalamazoo, MI

22h

About The Position

Kalamazoo Defender, an independent nonprofit providing legal representation to adults charged with crimes in Kalamazoo County, is seeking a full-time attorney to serve as a Motions and Appeals Specialist. The role develops and implements policies, procedures, and practices to advance appellate and motion work throughout Michigan courts. The attorney manages appeals, coordinates motion practice, supports the legal staff, and designs and leads monthly training sessions. The position does not carry an independent caseload. Reporting directly to the Deputy Chief Defender, the specialist works closely with attorney leadership to establish and share best practices. The role calls for a deep commitment to holistic defense, zealous client representation, and strong communication with multidisciplinary defense team members. The ideal candidate understands Michigan's appeals process, is passionate about written advocacy, and is committed to educating colleagues to strengthen their motions and appeals. Kalamazoo Defender describes its mission as fighting for justice in the courts, care in the community, and dignity in the world. Its holistic approach connects clients with support services in collaboration with area providers, while addressing systemic barriers related to poverty and discrimination.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate and licensure in good standing to practice in the State of Michigan.
At least two years of criminal law practice as a public defender, prosecutor, or private criminal defense attorney.
Quantitative trial experience: lead trial counsel, or active second chair managing a significant portion of the trial, in at least four felony criminal cases submitted to a jury; or a significant record of consistently high-quality trial court representation and the 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 principles, methods, materials, and practices of legal research and report presentation.
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, carefully check work, and understand the potential impact of errors.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, dependable follow-through, and ability to manage competing priorities and time-sensitive deadlines.
Proficiency in keyboarding, Microsoft Office, and basic office technologies, with comfort learning and working with new software, systems, and technology tools.
Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities, people struggling with addiction, and people experiencing mental health crises.
Ability to prioritize work while working collaboratively and independently.
Commitment to cultural awareness, professionalism, confidentiality, compassion, and integrity.

Nice To Haves

Experience in 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 on 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; 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/or 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 duties as assigned to 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 and 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 (EAP) and Health Advocate services available to all household members.
Optional Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (DCFSA).
Health Savings Account (HSA) available with an eligible high-deductible health plan.
Potential childcare assistance for qualifying employees through Michigan Tri-Share, with costs shared among the employee, employer, and state.
Opportunity to work with mission-driven individuals in a dynamic and innovative holistic legal program.