Job Description
Assistant Public Defender III - Providing Holistic Legal Representation for the Indigent Community **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW*** - Non-Profit Organization in Kalamazoo County Salary Range: $103,500 – $111,650 Full-Time Position with Comprehensive Benefits Package **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW***, a non-profit organization, is looking for an experienced and passionate Assistant Public Defender III to join their team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in felony litigation and a deep commitment to serving the indigent community. This role offers the opportunity to work with a dedicated team of professionals and make a real difference in the lives of those facing systemic barriers within the criminal justice system.
Job Responsibilities: - Provide legal representation for indigent clients in Kalamazoo County courts, with a focus on high severity felony cases - Adhere to MIDC Standards of Compliance and engage in continuing legal education - Meet with clients promptly, identifying their goals and special needs, and making referrals to Village services when appropriate - Review charging instruments, police reports, and other discovery materials to develop case strategies - Identify areas of the case that need further investigation and coordinate with the Chief Defender to employ investigators or experts - Research legal issues and litigate as necessary - Negotiate with the prosecution and communicate developments with clients - Prepare for and litigate cases in trial, handling all legal issues that arise - Maintain availability to other staff members for consultation and education, participate in training programs, and maintain current knowledge of appropriate support functions - Maintain accurate, complete, and well-organized electronic case files - Participate in, administer, or supervise legal clinics held in community forums - Mentor less experienced Assistant Public Defenders - Maintain open communication with all members of the defense team, including Paralegals, Client Navigators, Mitigation Specialists, Investigators, and Reception - Embrace a holistic, client-centered approach for criminal defense - Demonstrate a commitment to indigent defense - Perform any other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall effectiveness and success of the defense team
Qualifications: - Juris Doctorate, licensed to practice law and in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan, or ability to waive in, is required - Two full years of criminal practice, with at least four criminal trials - a minimum of one as primary counsel, is required - Experience in a public defender office is strongly preferred - Strong references and an exemplary legal track record are strongly preferred - Excellent verbal and written communication abilities - Familiarity with the communities from which our clients come - Strong commitment to **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW***'s mission and values - Commitment to professionalism, confidentiality, compassion, and integrity - Skill in working with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds - Ability to prioritize work tasks while working both collaboratively and independently - Demonstrate cultural awareness and a commitment to working in an anti-racist workplace
Benefits: - Health care coverage including medical, dental, and vision, with employee premiums covered at 100% - Retirement program offering both 403B and Roth options with employer match of 1.5 times employee contributions up to 5% - Five weeks of paid time off (pro-rated for start date), paid holiday closures, and additional paid parental leave program - Robust employee assistance program that includes services for all household members - Optional Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts - An opportunity to work with like-minded, mission-driven individuals in a dynamic and innovative holistic legal program, backed by a county capable of maximizing **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW***'s mission
How to Apply: If you have a Juris Doctorate, are licensed to practice law in Michigan, and have a passion for serving the indigent community, please send your resume and cover letter to **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW*** or to the following address: **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW*** Attn: Human Resources 151 S Rose St - Ste 300 Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Join our team at **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW*** and make a difference in the lives of those facing systemic barriers within the criminal justice system. We prioritize love, compassion, and equity in our work and are seeking a dedicated Assistant Public Defender III to provide holistic legal representation for the indigent community. Apply now and be a part of our mission to fight for our clients in court and organize care for them in our community.
