Main Purpose of Job
The Supervising Attorney will combine their dedication to the representation of indigent clients with their strong leadership and litigation skills to ensure the highest standard of client representation in a team-oriented environment. The Supervising Attorney is responsible for cultivating and sustaining a culture of excellence, respect, and positivity while simultaneously ensuring the efficient day-to-day operations of the office. This position will be primarily located in one of the four county offices and will be charged with the day-to-day operations of that office; however, members of the supervision team are required to provide coverage to the other counties within the district.
POSITION DUTIES
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
1. Reports to the District Public Defender and Deputy District Public Defender for District II.
2. Works closely with the leadership team to maintain a high standard of representation by ensuring accountability while fostering mentorship, teamwork, and communication.
3. Supervises attorneys in all phases of client representation from initial appointment through final appeal and post-trial procedures.
4. Monitors the attorney caseloads and the distribution of cases to ensure optimal client outcomes and attorney development.
5. Actively consults with attorneys on case preparation and trial strategy.
6. Identifies, assesses, and cultivates talent amongst attorneys.
7. Ensures accountability through the regular evaluation of attorney and staff performance.
8. Fosters a culture of respect, honesty, and collaboration.
9. Supports the vision of the District Public Defender internally and externally.
10. Follows, supports, and promotes directives given by the District Public Defender for the advancement of the agency and the local office.
11. Fosters a culture of excellence, resourcefulness, and zealousness amongst attorneys and staff.
12. Handles and approves transcript requests, investigation requests, and panel determinations.
13. Works closely with the Training Division and other Statewide Divisions to ensure effective representation through the development of relevant policies, practices, and training (including conducting regular in-house training programs).
14. Maintains an active caseload.
15. Performs other duties as determined by the State Public Defender.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: A Juris Doctorate degree or equivalent degree from an accredited school of law.Experience: Experience as a practicing Attorney.Notes:1. Candidates shall be an Attorney and admitted to practice law in the State by the Court ofAppeals of Maryland, at time of appointment.2. The above requirements are set by the Office of the Public Defender in accordance withCriminal Procedure Article, Section 16-203 of the Annotated Code of Maryland.3. Candidates may substitute Armed Forces military service experience as a commissionedofficer in general attorney classification or general attorney specialty codes in the legal andkindred group field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience andeducation.
DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Training and Qualifications
16. Demonstrated commitment to zealous and comprehensive public defense.
17. Excellent writing, research, and oral advocacy skills.
18. A desire to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with constructive feedback and performance evaluations.
19. Substantial criminal litigation experience and strong trial skills (a minimum of 5 years required; felony jury trial experience strongly preferred).
20. Commitment to addressing systemic inadequacies and inequities in the criminal justice system.
21. Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, adversaries, clients, and family members, irrespective of differences in backgrounds and lived experiences.
22. Strong ability to advocate for the office with external stakeholders without alienating the advancement of the office.
23. Commitment to working with community advocates to educate and serve the community.
24. Flexibility and regular attendance at community events promoting the work of the agency.
25. Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to manage dynamic teams and high-volume caseloads.
26. Demonstrated leadership, mentorship, supervisory, client advocacy, and management abilities.
27. Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or Bar of another state. Attorneys barred in another state must become a member of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of the start date.