OPD Juvenile Defenders provide consistent client-centered representation to their clients from their first court appearance through their entire case. This vertical representation model leads to deep and lasting client relationships and continuity of representation across years and cases. Juvenile Defenders must demonstrate strong oral and written litigation skills. The position requires innovative thinking, investigative skills, and the ability to work independently in managing an active juvenile caseload. Attorneys work in conjunction with social workers and core staff in a team-oriented environment. Attorneys must be able to balance a client-centered approach to representation with advocacy to address systemic inequity and the collateral consequences that lead to deeper system involvement. This position will be located in Towson, Maryland with an anticipated start date fall 2022. OPD will consider candidates at all experience levels for this position.
Our vision is for Justice, Fairness, and Dignity for All and we are committed to our core values of a culture of excellence, client-centered representation, tenacious advocacy, and remain united as a team in achieving our mission. At OPD we use our legal education and experience to fight for justice and fairness, no matter what 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.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
•Represent youth at arraignment, adjudication, disposition, and post-disposition hearings.
•Represent youth charged as adults in transfer hearings and subsequent trials in juvenile and criminal court.
•Represent clients in administrative matters related to conditions of confinement and access to treatment.
•Work to identify and advocate for solutions to systemic issues.
•Work collaboratively with social workers and core staff to assist clients and their families in matters related to housing, education, school discipline, mental health, and other collateral matters that contribute to deepening system involvement.
•Investigate, develop, and litigate novel and cutting edge Constitutional arguments in order to advance and expand the rights of young people in contact with the juvenile justice system.
•Competently, independently, and resourcefully manage a full caseload.
•Effectively, proactively, and compassionately communicate with clients, family members, team members, colleagues, and service providers to ensure optimal outcomes and resolve challenges in an open, constructive, and professional manner.
•Continuously seek professional and personal development through trainings, CLEs, and trial skills courses.
•Ensure clients are consistently heard and respected.
Demonstrated commitment to serving communities who have been pushed to the margins.
•Clear dedication to upending systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminal justice system.
•Compassion.
•Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with people with different backgrounds and lived experiences. Proven communication skills with children and adolescence.
•Knowledge, training, and experience related to adolescent development, neuroscience, education, mental health treatment, and best practices for juvenile rehabilitation.
•Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, diverse, team-oriented environment.
•Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to independently handle a high caseload.
• Criminal trial experience preferred, specific experience representing juveniles strongly preferred.
• Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or Bar of another state by start date. Attorneys barred in another state must become a member of the Maryland Bar within 18 months of the start date
If you wish to be considered for this position please click here to fill out the application and please submit the following items in one email to [email protected]: (1) current resume, (2) cover letter, (3) list of references, (4) writing sample, and (5) transcript (if graduated from law school within the past 3 years). In the subject line of the email please indicate “APD Juvenile, District VIII.” Incomplete applications will not be considered.
CLOSING DATE: JUNE 12, 2022
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