Supervising Attorney: District VII - Annapolis District Court

 At OPD we use our legal education and experience to fight for justice and fairness, and we refuse to remain silent in the midst of human suffering. Our unique talents, identities, educational backgrounds, and perspectives guide us in representing our clients. We stand up against prejudice, systemic racism, and inequity in all of the spaces we occupy. OPD seeks candidates that will join us in providing compassionate, competent, zealous, and client-centered representation to all of our clients. Learn more about our mission and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

● Actively participates with the other members of the leadership team to maintain a high standard of representation while ensuring accountability, fostering mentorship, teamwork, and communication. 

● Supervises attorneys handling misdemeanor cases as well as other professional and support staff. 

● Actively consults with attorneys regarding case preparation and trial strategy. 

● Responsible for the distribution of cases, managing attorney caseloads and schedules to ensure optimal outcomes for clients. 

● Fosters a culture of excellence, resourcefulness, and zealousness amongst attorneys and staff. 

● Ensures accountability through the regular evaluation of attorney and staff performance. 

● Identifies, assesses, and cultivates talent amongst attorneys.

● Organizes and conducts regular in-house training programs. 

● Collaborates with other Agencies and entities involved in the criminal justice system to help meet the needs of clients. 

● Works closely with the Training Division and other Statewide Divisions to ensure effective representation through the development of relevant policies, practices, and training. 

● Maintains an active caseload. 

● Performs other duties as determined by the State Public Defender.

● Substantial criminal litigation experience and strong leadership and collaborative skills. (trial experience strongly preferred). 

● Demonstrated leadership, mentorship, communication, supervisory, client advocacy, and management abilities. 

● Superior organization and communication skills.

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

If you wish to be considered, please click here to fill out the application and upload the following documents in one PDF attachment through the Maryland State Government Job Openings Resume Page: (1) a current resume, (2) a cover letter, (3) a list of four professional references, and (4) a writing sample between 5-20 pages of legal analysis (ex. Court briefs or substantive motions).

Incomplete applications will not be considered. 

Assistant Public Defenders are full-time employees and cannot engage in the private practice of law while in this position. MD Code, Criminal Procedure Art., Section 16- 203(d)(2). As a State agency, the Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. MOPD is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, physical or mental disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. 

All applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors and possess the ability to complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment. Applicants must be able to work in various positions and travel to various courtrooms, office environments, and detention facilities throughout the state. MOPD is further committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities by modifying or adjusting the job application process or the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known applicant or employee to enable the applicant or employee be considered for the position they desire; to perform the essential functions of the position in question; or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the accommodation imposes an undue hardship.

Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment. Applicants must have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Tawanda Jackson, Human Resources Supervisor, at 410-767-8503 or tawandal.jackson@maryland.gov.