Managing Public Defender

To be considered for OPD positions, applicants must complete and submit their application online, as well as upload any required application materials.

This position is open until filled with frequent screenings.

To Provide the Most Compassionate and Expert Defense of Clients and the Constitution

Creating Expert Teams of Advocates for Justice, Bringing Respect and Dignity to our Clients to Achieve Holistic and Equitable Outcomes

Reasons to work for the Office of the Public Defender: Our work changes lives! OPD’s work makes a difference for the people in our communities. Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system remains fair. We are proud of the work we do. To find out more about OPD, visit our website.

Benefits of working for OPD: The ability to work and play in the beautiful state of Montana is one of the benefits you will love about this opportunity! Montana offers theaters, museums, fairs, rodeos, a high-quality educational system, and many recreational opportunities. Montana s mountains, rivers, and lakes provide year-round opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing, hiking, camping, boating, biking, hunting, skiing, and snowmobiling can be accessed throughout our great state.

Other fantastic benefits include:

• Health coverage
• Retirement plans
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Work/life balance
• Flexible schedules
• Opportunities and room for professional growth
• Telework (when applicable)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness — Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive public service loan forgiveness. Visit the Federal Student Aid website to learn more!

Materials Required of Applicants:

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• References:
  Please provide contact information for two current or former supervisors and one professional peer.

Job Overview: Managing Attorneys ensure that effective and efficient legal services are rendered for clients represented by the Office of the Public Defender by providing guidance, leadership and day-to-day supervision to Public Defenders within an assigned office or Region. This position’s responsibilities involve establishing office protocols, ensuring that public defender assignments within the Public Defender Office comply with the provisions of MCA 47-1-202(7);

contracts for services as provided in MCA 47-1-216; keeps records of public defender and associated services of Office expenses; and implements the standards and procedures established by management. In addition to supervision and management of staff and office procedures, this position will also be required to carry a caseload representing indigent clients in a variety of cases. Public Defenders must have a passion, commitment, and willingness to work collaboratively with underprivileged populations to ensure that needed services are provided and continually advocate to improve the level of services OPD provides to its clients.

The job duties and responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to the following: