Deputy Unit Chief, Civil Litigation Division, Correctional Litigation Unit

Attorney General of Maryland•Baltimore, MD

22h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Maryland Office of the Attorney General is seeking an experienced litigator to serve as Deputy Unit Chief in the Correctional Litigation Unit of the Civil Litigation Division. The Division defends the State and its employees in significant civil cases in state and federal courts and provides legal guidance, coordination, and support to other OAG divisions. The Correctional Litigation Unit defends the State against federal lawsuits brought by current and former incarcerated individuals, including complex claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, the First, Eighth, and Fourteenth Amendments, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act, and the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, as well as related State constitutional and common-law tort claims. The Deputy Unit Chief handles substantial litigation and leadership responsibilities, representing the State in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland, Maryland trial courts, and state and federal appellate courts. The position independently handles complex cases and oversees matters assigned to Assistant Attorneys General. In collaboration with the Unit Chief, the Deputy Unit Chief provides direction and oversight, develops attorneys and staff, participates in personnel and hiring decisions, manages operations and resources, and fosters a positive, inclusive, and productive team culture. The position is based at 200 St. Paul Place, Baltimore, Maryland, and follows a hybrid schedule with two in-office days per week. The OAG expects its attorneys to maintain a sustained commitment to pro bono service; up to 50 work hours may be used for approved pro bono activities. Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter, writing sample, and three professional references, including at least one current or former supervisor.

Requirements

At least seven years of legal experience, including substantial civil litigation experience and a strong command of civil trial and pretrial processes.
Exceptional analytical, research, and written and verbal communication skills.
Leadership and organizational skills needed to manage a team and multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Membership in both the Maryland Bar and the Federal Bar, or the ability to waive in.
A demonstrated record of meaningful pro bono engagement or a sincere interest in pro bono work as a professional obligation.
Submit a resume, cover letter, writing sample, and three professional references, including at least one current or former supervisor.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in correctional litigation or civil rights law is strongly preferred.
Prior supervisory or mentorship experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Represent the State in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland, Maryland trial courts, and state and federal appellate courts.
Independently handle complex litigation and oversee cases assigned to Assistant Attorneys General.
Take and defend depositions and manage written discovery.
Draft briefs and pleadings.
Appear in court for motions, hearings, and trials, including serving as first chair on trial teams.
Collaborate with the Unit Chief to provide direction, set expectations, and oversee legal and administrative work.
Mentor and develop attorneys and staff.
Make sound personnel and hiring decisions.
Manage unit operations and resources efficiently.
Foster a positive, inclusive, and productive team culture.
Maintain a sustained commitment to pro bono service through the OAG’s Stephen H. Sachs Pro Bono Program or other qualified opportunities.

Benefits

Annual leave: 10–25 days per year based on service.
Sick leave: 15 days per year with unlimited carryover.
Personal leave: up to 6 days per year.
12 paid state holidays.
At least 12 weeks of paid family leave for personal medical needs, family caregiving, and qualifying military-related reasons.
Medical, dental, and vision plans.
Defined-benefit pension plan, plus 401(k) and 457 supplemental retirement options.
Hybrid and flexible work schedules available for many roles.
Ongoing training and development opportunities.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Free mass transit in eligible areas.
Employee Assistance Program.
Access to SECU.
Up to 50 work hours for approved pro bono activities.