Entry Level Attorney : Harford County (District Ix)

State of Maryland•Harford, MD

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) seeks Assistant Public Defenders for its Harford County District Court office. Attorneys provide compassionate, competent, zealous, and client-centered representation while managing an active caseload in a busy, team-oriented office. They work with social workers, investigators, and core staff, combining trial advocacy with attention to systemic inequity and the collateral consequences that can lead to deeper system involvement. Candidates who have taken the July Maryland Bar examination and are awaiting results will be considered. Assistant Public Defenders are full-time employees and may not engage in private practice while in this position. The position is based at 2 South Bond Street, Suite 203, Bel Air, Maryland, and involves travel to courtrooms, office environments, and detention facilities throughout the state.

Requirements

Demonstrated commitment to serving communities that have been pushed to the margins.
Clear dedication to addressing systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal justice system.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds and lived experiences.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, diverse, team-oriented environment.
Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to handle a high caseload.
Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or the bar of another state. Attorneys admitted in another state must become members of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of their start date.
Ability to communicate with clients and visitors and complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment.
Ability to work in various positions and travel to courtrooms, office environments, and detention facilities throughout the state.
Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment.
Access to a motor vehicle or ability to navigate public transportation.

Responsibilities

Represent clients passionately and zealously at every stage of the criminal process, including trials, bail reviews, probation violation and modification hearings, and other critical litigation stages.
Ensure clients are consistently heard and respected.
Conduct legal research and analysis on changes in law, legislation, procedural rules, court decisions, and case precedents; anticipate legal problems and propose resolutions.
Communicate effectively and compassionately with clients, team members, colleagues, and service providers to support optimal client outcomes.
Counsel and advise clients on changes in law, court decisions, and legal issues.
Negotiate with prosecutors and other parties to establish agreements that resolve cases favorably for clients.
Manage a full caseload resourcefully.
Pursue ongoing professional and personal development through trainings, CLEs, and trial skills courses.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Public Defender.