Managing Agency Counsel

The Office of the Ohio Public Defender (OPD) is seeking Managing Counsel for the agency. You will plan, direct and coordinate agency legal programs, working primarily with other managers and leaders to help identify legal issues and respond to specific questions. You will provide legal counsel and advice to the agency appointing authority and leadership. You will manage a team which spans the agency’s legal, legislation, and public information programs; you will directly supervise the agency’s Public Information Officer and Legislative Policy Manager. You will support agency legislative efforts related to matters of criminal law and policy and will register as an agency lobbyist at the Statehouse and help research current and proposed legislation, draft proposed legislation or testimony, analyze documents used in legislative efforts, and assist in research on policy and public information matters.

The position reports to the Deputy Director of our Policy and Outreach Division. This division serves as the main point of contact for county indigent defense systems, oversees reimbursement to the counties, and is responsible for the agency’s work with media, social media, legislation, training, social science research, administrative policy, legal services, and overall agency outreach. This position does require in-office hours. You will be eligible for a hybrid schedule: at-home hours are available on average 2-3 days a week, depending on job duties and needs.

The position requires independent and collaborative work. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated success working in a team environment to problem-solve and brainstorm to find solutions that best serve agency personnel and clients. We are seeking candidates with experience serving in an In-House Counsel or General Counsel position, or experience as an Attorney in State Government, with experience and knowledge in employment and administrative law, and the demonstrated ability to quickly research and assess risk and benefits.