Assistant Public Defender – Level III

Kalamazoo Defender is an independent non-profit organization that provides legal representation to the adult indigent population charged with a crime within Kalamazoo County. We take a holistic approach, employing compassionate professionals who work with our clients to identify and address additional needs beyond their legal case. In collaboration with our robust network of area service providers, we aim to connect our clients to relevant support services.
Our mission is rooted in the conviction that poverty and various forms of discrimination put our clients on inequitable footing within and beyond our criminal justice system. Our job is to be their zealous defender in the face of these systemic barriers, fighting for them in court but also organizing care for them in our community.

THE JOB:
Kalamazoo Defender is seeking a full-time Assistant Public Defender III to provide indigent defense for felony cases, under the supervision of the Felony Supervisor. The ideal candidate will have experience in felony litigation and be passionate about serving the indigent community and guiding less-experienced defenders.
This role involves a deep commitment to the holistic defense model, zealous representation of clients, and maintaining strong communication with team members. The APD III is expected to collaborate with internal and external investigators, present well-researched legal issues in court, and stay updated on legal trends. The position requires someone with excellent communication skills, experience with litigation, the ability to manage a felony caseload, and the willingness to provide mentorship to less experienced defenders.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Provide legal representation for indigent clients in Kalamazoo County courts, focusing on high severity felony cases.
• Adhere to MIDC Standards of Compliance.
• 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; maintain current knowledge of appropriate support functions.
• Maintain accurate, complete and well-organized electronic case files.
• Participates in, administers, or supervises 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.

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 Kalamazoo Defender's mission.