Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Kalispell, MT

Government

Kalispell, MT

Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Kalispell, MT

Attorney

No

Selection for employment is decided solely on the basis of qualifications and merit.



Public Defender - Providing Compassionate and Expert Legal Defense for Clients and the Constitution

Salary Information:

- Candidates not licensed in Montana will be paid a training assignment wage of $70,.
- Upon licensure by the State Bar of Montana, new attorneys will be paid an annualized wage of $84,.
- Other benefits include health coverage, retirement plans, paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, and opportunities for professional growth.

Job Title:

Public Defender - Passionate and Committed Advocate for Justice

Experience Information:

- Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited law school
- Membership in the State Bar of Montana
- Previous experience in criminal defense preferred

H1: Join Our Team as a Public Defender in Montana!

H2: Reasons to Work for the Office of the Public Defender

- Our work changes lives!
- Opportunity to work and play in the beautiful state of Montana
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Work/life balance and flexible schedules
- Opportunities for professional growth and development
- Telework options available
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness program eligibility

Job Overview:

As a Public Defender for the Office of the Public Defender (OPD), you will serve as a defense attorney for indigent clients and other persons in criminal and civil cases. This includes representation in felony and misdemeanor criminal charges, youth court proceedings, mental health commitments, and guardianship or conservatorship proceedings. Public Defenders are expected to exercise professional judgment and provide competent legal services for all cases handled by the OPD.

Essential Functions:

- Represent clients in court and other legal proceedings
- Provide legal defense in cases that may be high-profile or involve significant liability exposure
- Prepare legal documents and evidence necessary for litigation
- Interpret and apply state and federal laws
- Identify and interview parties, witnesses, and experts involved in legal proceedings
- Provide legal advice and facilitate legal decisions
- Attend continuing education trainings
- Other duties as assigned

Physical and Environmental Demands:

This position may require working in a variety of settings, such as an office or court setting, and visiting jails, detention centers, or mental health facilities. There may be fluctuations in workload that require more than a 40-hour work week and occasional exposure to stressful situations. Travel may be required to attend court, trainings, and provide services to clients.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

- Knowledge of legal and court policies and procedures
- Familiarity with methods and tactics employed in defense of legal actions
- Knowledge of criminal law and procedure in Montana
- Ability to work effectively with marginalized populations
- Strong organization, time management, and communication skills
- Ability to learn and utilize agency case management system
- Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships
- Skilled in use of standard office equipment and software

Minimum Qualifications:

- Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited law school
- Membership in the State Bar of Montana
- Preferred: Previous experience in criminal defense

Applicant Pool Statement:

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Training Assignment:

This agency may use a training assignment, in which employees may be paid below the base pay established by agency pay rules. Conditions of the training assignment will be stated in writing at the time of hire.

Join Our Team:

As a Public Defender for the Office of the Public Defender, you will have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those in our communities. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, as well as a supportive and collaborative work environment. Apply today and become a part of our team of passionate and committed advocates for justice!