Assistant Public Defender - Trial
MSPD trial attorneys provide high quality, zealous advocacy and legal representation to indigent clients throughout all phases of criminal matters in the state of Missouri.
Duties include, but are not limited to:
Establishing rapport with and maintaining a professional relationship with each client through telephone contact, meetings and/or institutional visits
Advising and counselling each client throughout each stage of a case
Ensuring each client is kept apprised of investigations, negotiations, and court rulings
Thoroughly investigating cases by means of: interviewing a variety of individuals (e.
g.
, client, witnesses, expert witnesses, family members, etc.
); reviewing law enforcement reports; examining discovery
Appearing at regularly scheduled court dockets and all appearances concerning assigned caseload
Conducting legal research and staying abreast of statutes, regulations and pertinent court decisions
Preparing legal documents including motions, pleadings, and briefs in connection with hearings, trials, and other legal proceedings
Litigating all aspects of each client’s case through disposition at the trial court level
Preparing case, client and witnesses for trial
Promoting and protecting the best interests of the client at all times
Incorporating a holistic approach with each client
Collaborating with other staff on behalf of the client
Attending Continuing Legal Education (CLE) as required
Requirements/Qualifications:
Licensed to practice law in the State of Missouri, awaiting bar results, or transferring bar license from a different state.
Interest in criminal law and defending constitutional rights of individuals who cannot afford an attorney.
Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.
APD I: $5,000/month (starting salary)
APD II: $5,417/month (eligible for consideration after 1 year of successful performance)
APD III: $6,036/month (eligible for consideration after 3 years of successful performance)
Senior Public Defender I-II: $6,834- $7,283/month (eligible for consideration after continued highly successful performance)