Juvenile Unit Attorney

Overview

MPD has been at the cutting edge of public defense since 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services and is the largest single provider of trial level public defense in Oregon, with offices in Multnomah and Washington counties. MPD is committed to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders and to leadership in public defense.

MPD is currently searching for a Juvenile Unit Attorney to join the Washington County Office. The attorney will provide court-appointed advocacy services in Washington County, Oregon, handling youth defense, child welfare, and juvenile delinquency cases as described below.

• Review charging instruments, police reports, and other discovery provided by the State.
• Represent parents against abuse and neglect allegations in juvenile dependency proceedings, from first shelter appearance through adjudication and/or termination trials.
• Represent children involved in dependency proceedings, including children of parents accused of neglect or abuse.
• Develop and implement strategy for representation in consultation with clients, and carry out representation in accordance with that strategy.
• Handle Juvenile Delinquency cases: review discovery, meet with juvenile clients in or out of custody, negotiate with the District Attorney, file pre-trial motions, retain experts, and prepare for and conduct full criminal trials.
• Perform all duties in accordance with applicable statutes, practice standards, and Oregon Rules of Professional Conduct; receive general supervision from the Juvenile Chief Attorney.

• Salary: $91,141.18 – $ per year.
• Employment type:
  
  Full-time exempt position.
• Union:
  Member of AFSCME Public Defenders Local 3668 after the completion of a 6-month evaluation period.
• Location:
  
  Washington County Office.

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

• Must be a current member of the Oregon State Bar in good standing.
• Ability to pass a background check to access clients and witnesses in correctional facilities and to testify in court without impeachment (certain crimes within the prior 15 years may preclude)
• Experience in indigent criminal defense, juvenile defense, child welfare advocacy, and/or related fields; proficiency in evidence, criminal law, criminal procedure, court procedure, ethics, dependency law, and collateral consequences.

• Lead by example in work assignments and in treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system.
• Excellent verbal and written communication; strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills; strong time management and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software; ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Fosters a friendly, cooperative, and respectful work environment.
• Work is generally sedentary in office, courthouse, field location, or jail facility; may involve carrying records up to 10 pounds and other light physical activity.

Staff attorneys may participate only in MPD-assigned legal work for compensation during employment, with permission from the Executive Director needed to continue representation on prior non-MPD cases or pro bono work.

To Apply:

submit a current resume and cover letter explaining interest in the position and/or in supporting public defense work. Internal applicants should apply via the Career Center in ADP. Applications open until filled.

MPD values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or other protected characteristics. Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act is available; please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.

How to Apply:

Apply Here