Resource Attorney

Harris County•Houston, TX

8d•$139,000 - $145,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Harris County Office of Managed Assigned Counsel (MAC) supports attorneys who provide high-quality legal and holistic representation to people accused of criminal offenses who cannot afford counsel. MAC is committed to treating clients with dignity, respect, and professionalism throughout the legal process. The Resource Attorney serves as a liaison between MAC, appointed counsel, and the courts. The position provides direct support, oversight, training, and operational assistance to attorneys on the MAC appointment list to promote quality representation, compliance with program standards, and effective resolution of challenges in appointed cases. As one of four Resource Attorneys, this position manages and supports a designated group of MAC-appointed attorneys. The role contributes to the quality, consistency, and effectiveness of representation through mentorship, oversight, training, and problem-solving. This is a regular, full-time, in-person position, typically working Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, for 40 hours per week. Occasional weekends, holidays, and overtime may be required based on departmental needs. The work is primarily in a professional office, with work locations potentially varying among courts, jails for necessary visits, and off-site meetings. Travel may be required, including to visit clients. The role uses standard office equipment, and physical demands are minimal, with occasional lifting or moving of objects weighing up to 30 pounds. Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards. The position is subject to a criminal history check; only relevant convictions will be considered and may not automatically disqualify a candidate. The annual salary is $139,000–$145,000, depending on qualifications, based on 26 pay periods. The position remains open until hire, and applications may close earlier due to volume or at the hiring department’s discretion.

Requirements

Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law college or university.
A Texas law license in good standing, or proof of submission for admission without examination within 30 days of accepting an offer. Extensions beyond 30 days may be permitted for exigent circumstances at the Executive Director’s discretion.
At least five years of experience as a criminal trial attorney, with a significant portion of that experience representing criminal defendants.
Jury trial experience.
Solid understanding of Texas criminal law, procedure, and evidence.
Ability to manage and teach other attorneys and practice law in a large institutional environment.
Deep knowledge of trial skills and the ability to teach them.
Submit a cover letter, updated resume, three references with the nature of each relationship and contact information, a criminal-law writing sample of no more than six double-spaced pages, and a current letter of good standing from the applicant’s state bar of practice. All required documents must be attached when the application is submitted; late documents will not be accepted.
Document qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills on the job application. Resume attachments may be supporting documentation, but only information stated on the application will be used for consideration; “See Resume” will not be accepted.

Nice To Haves

Currently licensed to practice in Texas.
At least five jury trials as lead counsel.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact between MAC and assigned misdemeanor courts.
Assist with administration and management of attorney appointments for attorneys approved to accept misdemeanor cases through MAC.
Monitor attorney caseloads to promote appropriate workload distribution and compliance with MAC standards and applicable regulations.
Provide guidance, resources, mentoring, and ongoing support to MAC-appointed attorneys.
Assist attorneys in resolving day-to-day matters involving discovery, litigation strategy, trial preparation, and other case-related issues.
Facilitate conflict resolution involving appointed attorneys, clients, prosecutors, or members of the judiciary.
Serve as first-chair or second-chair counsel when necessary to support appointed attorneys and ensure continuity of representation.
Assist in developing, coordinating, and delivering training programs for MAC-appointed attorneys.
Monitor, maintain, and enhance MAC legal resources, including physical and electronic reference materials used in appointed cases.
Conduct legal research and analysis on issues affecting indigent defense and MAC operations.
Review and evaluate attorney performance and identify areas for improvement through observation, feedback, and available program data.
Develop and implement corrective action plans for appointed attorneys, coordinating with division leadership when serious performance concerns arise.
Provide targeted coaching, mentoring, training, and follow-up to support compliance with MAC standards and high-quality client representation.
Assist with special projects, policy initiatives, and operational planning.
Support the Misdemeanor Division Chief with attorney training and professional development initiatives.
Support the Legal Operations Director with legal research, program development, strategic planning, and other assigned operational responsibilities.