Job Description
Managing Public Defender - Opportunity in Montana
Organization: Office of the Public Defender
Location: Lewistown, Montana
Salary: $108,169 per year
Job Type: Full-time
Travel: 50%
Benefits: Health insurance, paid leave and holidays, retirement plan
About the Organization:
The Office of the Public Defender (OPD) in Montana is dedicated to providing compassionate and expert defense for clients and protecting their constitutional rights. With a vision of creating expert teams of advocates for justice, OPD strives to bring respect and dignity to their clients and achieve holistic and equitable outcomes. They are proud of the work they do and are always looking for passionate individuals to join their team.
Why Work for OPD:
- Our work changes lives and makes a difference for people in our communities. - We work for our clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure a fair justice system. - We offer competitive salary and benefits packages. - Montana offers a beautiful and diverse landscape with many recreational opportunities. - We promote work-life balance and offer flexible schedules. - There are opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the organization. - We offer telework options when applicable. - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify for loan forgiveness through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
Job Overview:
The Managing Public Defender is responsible for providing guidance, leadership, and day-to-day supervision to Public Defenders within an assigned office or region. This position also involves establishing office protocols, ensuring compliance with laws and contracts, managing office expenses, and implementing standards and procedures. In addition to management duties, the Managing Public Defender will also carry a caseload and represent indigent clients in a variety of cases.
Essential Functions:
- Represent clients in court and other legal proceedings. - Prepare legal documents and evidence. - Interpret and apply state and federal laws. - Conduct legal research and provide legal advice. - Supervise and manage staff. - Establish and maintain relationships with various agencies and organizations. - Participate in the development of operational plans and goals. - Approve office expenses and assist with budgeting. - Attend continuing education trainings and conferences.
Physical and Environmental Demands:
This position may work in a variety of settings, including an office or court, and may require regular visits to jails, detention centers, or mental health facilities. The workload may fluctuate and may require more than a 40-hour work week. Some travel may be required, up to 50% of the time.
Qualifications:
- Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited law school. - Membership in the State Bar of Montana. - Extensive knowledge of the Public Defender arena and roles and duties of court-appointed counsel. - Knowledge of legal and court policies, procedures, and practices. - Experience in criminal defense preferred. - Strong leadership skills and ability to direct a complex organization. - Ability to effectively work with marginalized populations. - Skilled in problem-solving and decision-making. - Ability to work independently and as part of a team. - Proficient in the use of standard office equipment and software.
Conclusion:
The Office of the Public Defender in Montana is seeking a highly qualified and dedicated individual to join their team as a Managing Public Defender. This is a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those in our communities and to work in a beautiful and diverse state. If you are passionate about justice and have the necessary qualifications, we encourage you to apply today!
