Reasons to work for the Office of the Public Defender: - Our work changes lives! - We are proud of the work we do, to find out more about OPD visit our website HERE. - The ability to work and play in the beautiful state of Montana. - Montana offers a high-quality educational system and many recreational opportunities.
Benefits of working for OPD: - Health coverage - Retirement plans - Paid vacation, sick leave and holidays - Work/life balance - Flexible schedules - Opportunities for professional growth - Telework (when applicable) - Public Service Loan Forgiveness
Job Overview: - Serve as a defense attorney for indigent clients and other persons in criminal and civil cases. - Expected to exercise professional judgment and render competent legal services. - Handle a variety of cases including felony and misdemeanor criminal charges, youth court proceedings, and involuntary mental health or developmental disability commitments. - Must have a passion, commitment, and willingness to work collaboratively with underprivileged populations.
Essential Functions: - Represent clients in court and during legal proceedings. - Provide legal defense in cases that may be high-profile or involve significant liability exposure. - Prepare legal documents and evidence necessary to litigate cases. - Interpret and apply state and federal laws. - Identify and interview parties, witnesses, and experts. - Provide consultation, make recommendations, and give appropriate legal advice. - Assist and collaborate with other attorneys during trials and hearings. - Attend continuing education trainings. - May serve as a principal legal advisor in a specific field of law.
Physical and Environmental Demands: - Work in a variety of settings such as an office or court, with regular visits to jails, detention centers, or mental health facilities. - Fluctuation of workload may require more than a 40-hour work week. - Occasional exposure to stressful situations. - Attendance of continuing legal education seminars is necessary. - Depending on location, may require up to 40% travel to attend court, trainings, and provide services to clients.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: - Knowledge of legal and court policies, procedures, and practices. - Familiarity with methods and tactics employed in the defense of legal actions. - Knowledge of criminal law and the law of criminal procedure. - Ability to work effectively with marginalized populations. - Ability to understand and be sensitive to cultural differences. - Knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, and regulations. - Skilled in use of standard office equipment and software. - Strong organization, time management, and communication skills. - Ability to learn and consistently utilize the agency case management system. - Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships.
Minimum Qualifications: - Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited law school. - Membership in the State Bar of Montana. - Previous experience in criminal defense preferred.
Salary: $84,364.37 - $98,276.72 yearly
Telework Eligibility: Telework eligible with supervisor approval.
Benefits Package Eligibility: Health insurance, paid leave and holidays, retirement plan.
About the Agency: - Mission: To provide the most compassionate and expert defense of clients and the Constitution. - Vision: Creating expert teams of advocates for justice, bringing respect and dignity to our clients to achieve holistic and equitable outcomes. - Applicants must complete and submit their application online, as well as upload any required materials.
Application Materials Required: - Cover Letter - Resume - References
The State of Montana is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.
