Attorney -IV

Overview

MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in Oregon, with offices in Multnomah and Washington counties.

MPD is currently searching for Attorneys I–IV to join our Multnomah County and Washington County Offices. The Attorney position provides court-appointed criminal defense services in both counties. Attorneys assigned to a trial unit review charging instruments, police reports and other discovery; meet with clients to learn their goals and any special needs; determine and direct further investigation; identify and develop legal issues;

research and present them in the appropriate forum; negotiate with the State and keep the client informed of status; litigate necessary issues, including trial. Attorneys may also conduct post-trial litigation such as sentencing and post-trial motions (excluding appeals).

Attorneys assigned to other units (specialty courts, juveniles) review documents, discuss them with clients, develop a strategy for representation in consultation with the client, and carry out the representation according to that strategy. Attorneys practice under applicable statutes, standards, and the Oregon Rules of Professional Conduct and receive general supervision from the unit Attorney Chief.

This position pays $91,141.18 - $ per year. Staff are members of Union AFSCME Public Defenders Local 3668 after the completion of a 6-month evaluation period. This is a full-time exempt position. MPD offers the following benefits in addition to compensation:

• Medical (PPO or HDHP), Dental (PPO Standard or PPO Enhanced) and Vision – 100% employer paid for employee only coverage
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Basic Life, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability and AD&D – 100% employer paid
• 401(k) – MPD contributes 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after 5 years of service
• PTO – 24 hours upon hire, accrue monthly to 80 hours and increase to 120 hours after 24 months
• 10 paid holidays + 2 personal equity days
• 4 Mental Health Days per year
• Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire and accrues monthly after six months

• Must be a current member of the Oregon State Bar in good standing.
• Experience working in indigent criminal defense. Areas of proficiency should include evidence, criminal law, criminal procedure, court procedure, ethics, and collateral consequences.

• Ability to lead by example in handling work assignments and in interactions with staff and others in the criminal justice system.
• Ability to pass a background check to access clients and witnesses in correctional facilities and to testify in court without impeachment (note: may preclude employees or applicants with certain crimes within the prior 15 years).
• Maintains confidentiality of agency records. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful. Work is generally sedentary in an office setting, courthouse, field location, or jail facility. There are frequent requirements for physical activity such as carrying boxes of records up to 10 pounds, stooping to extract records, or carrying and setting up display easels in court.

Staff attorneys may participate only in MPD-assigned legal work for compensation during the term of their employment, except for cases obtained prior to employment. Permission from the Executive Director is required to continue representation on prior non-MPD cases and/or to be involved in active representation on a pro bono basis.

Submit a current resume and a cover letter explaining your interest in the position and/or in supporting public defense work. Open until filled.

MPD values diversity and supports a culture of dignity and respect for all staff.

MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by law. Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: MPD provides reasonable accommodation to applicants who need assistance; please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.