ATTORNEY POSITIONS
Interested in joining our team? OPD hires two classes a year, Fall and Spring. Recent law school graduates and attorneys with a moderate amount of criminal trial experience are hired into classes. OPD also extends a limited number of offers to current law students to join us in January after graduation (and become a member of the Spring Class). Click here to learn more about our hiring classes.
Additionally, OPD specifically advertises attorney opportunities with our specialized divisions (Appellate, Post Conviction, Parental Defenders, and Mental Health) as these positions become available. OPD also specifically advertises for juvenile defender positions, experienced attorney positions, and entry-level criminal trial positions in rural areas. All positions currently in recruitment are listed below (please note that positions are not listed in any particular order):
Assistant Public Defenders are full-time employees and cannot engage in the private practice of law while in this position. MD Code, Criminal Procedure Art., Section 16-203(d)(2).
As a State agency, the Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. MOPD is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, physical or mental disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.
All applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors and possess the ability to complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment. Applicants must be able to work in various positions and travel to various courtrooms and office environments throughout the state. MOPD is further committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities by modifying or adjusting the job application process or the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known applicant or employee to enable the applicant or employee be considered for the position they desire; to perform the essential functions of the position in question; or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the accommodation imposes an undue hardship.
Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment. Applicants must have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Tawanda Jackson, Human Resources Supervisor, at 410-767-8503 or tawandal.jackson@maryland.gov.