District Defender (Managing Attorney) – Kansas City Trial

The Missouri State Public Defender Trial Division boasts nearly 300 full-time attorneys and is a formidable force in the state’s legal landscape. Representing clients at the State Trial Court level across Missouri who cannot afford an attorney, the division operates from its 33 district offices spread throughout the state. The Trial Division fearlessly tackles the toughest legal challenges, ensuring fairness and upholding constitutional principles for all. 

The District Defender at the Trial Office serves as the managing attorney, overseeing a dedicated team of attorneys. Responsible for maintaining caseload responsibilities, the District Defender plays a vital role in case assignments, employee performance monitoring, hiring, and the development and implementation of office policies. This leadership position ensures the highest standards of legal advocacy, safeguarding the rights of indigent clients. 

Job duties include:

1. Management and Leadership:

• Provide leadership and direction to a team of attorneys and support staff.
• Oversee case assignments and workload distribution among staff attorneys.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive work environment conducive to professional growth and development.

1. Caseload Management:

• Manage a caseload of serious and complex cases in accordance with office standards and guidelines.
• Administer case assignments effectively and efficiently.
• Ensure timely and effective representation of clients in all court proceedings.
• Review and provide guidance on legal strategies, briefs, and pleadings prepared by staff attorneys.

1. Employee Performance Monitoring:

• Conduct regular evaluations of attorney performance and provide constructive feedback and guidance.
• Address performance issues and provide training or resources as needed to support staff development.
• Recognize and reward exceptional performance and dedication to client advocacy.

1. Hiring and Development:

• Participate in the recruitment, interviewing, and selection of new staff attorneys and support personnel.
• Coordinate and oversee the onboarding process for new hires, including orientation and training.
• Provide mentoring and professional development opportunities to support the growth and advancement of staff members.

1. Policy Development and Implementation:

• Develop and implement office policies and procedures to ensure efficient and effective operations.
• Stay informed about changes in laws, regulations, and best practices related to the justice system.
• Communicate and enforce office policies and standards to promote consistency and adherence to ethical guidelines.

1. Licensed to practice law in the State of Missouri, or transferring bar license from a different state.
2. Experience with serious and complex litigation.
3. Demonstrated leadership and management experience, preferably in a legal setting.
4. Strong organizational and communication skills.
5. Ability to effectively delegate tasks and manage priorities in a fast-paced environment.
6. Commitment to the mission of the Missouri State Public Defender’s office and to providing zealous advocacy for indigent clients.
7. Knowledge of criminal law, procedure, and rules applicable in Missouri.
8. Experience in hiring, training, and supervising legal professionals.

If you’re a dynamic leader with a passion for justice we encourage you to apply.

This is a full-time position based in Kansas City. The successful candidate will receive competitive compensation and State of Missouri benefits that include a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Learn more about benefits at https://publicdefender.mo.gov/employment/working-for-mspd/benefits/ Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck. To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator. This tool provides a comprehensive view of benefits and more that are offered to prospective employees. The Total Compensation Calculator and other applicant resources can be found https://pers.oa.mo.gov/applicants .

Human.Resources@mspd.mo.gov 

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