Public Information Officer

The Public Information Officer (PIO) serves as the primary communications liaison for the Probate Court. This position is responsible for developing and executing the Court’s public information and communication strategy, overseeing the Court’s branding programs, and conveying a consistent message in support of the Court’s mission, goals, and initiatives.

The PIO initiates and oversees the establishment of integrated strategies, plans, and programs to ensure that all communication and public information efforts are cohesive, consistent, and effective to advance education and understanding of the judicial function. The position plans, develops, directs, and coordinates comprehensive communication programs in close collaboration with county communications and other Court partners.

The PIO develops, coordinates, and disseminates accurate, timely, and accessible information to the public, media, legal community, and internal staff, promoting transparency and public trust while ensuring compliance with legal, ethical, and confidentiality requirements.

• Serve as the designated spokesperson for the Probate Court, as applicable.
• Initiate, develop, and oversee integrated communication strategies, plans, and programs.
• Plan, develop, direct, and coordinate comprehensive communication programs, including media, public affairs, and publications.
• Ensure all messaging supports the Court’s mission, goals, and initiatives and the judicial branch generally.
• Prepare and distribute press releases, media statements, advisories, take minutes, and public notices.
• Respond to media and public records inquiries in coordination with court leadership and legal counsel, as applicable.
• Coordinate interviews, teaching opportunities, and public appearances for the Judge and Court leadership.
• Strategically plan, coordinate, and manage Court-sponsored and Court-related events and special initiatives, including Adoption Day, stakeholder meetings, community parades, and other public engagement activities, to enhance public awareness, trust, and visibility of the Court.

• Establish and maintain professional relationships with reporters and editors of area newspapers and electronic media outlets.
• Respond to media requests for information in a timely and professional manner.
• Monitor media coverage and address inaccuracies when necessary.
• Develop proactive media engagement strategies for high-profile or sensitive matters.

• Develop and maintain timely, accurate, and informative webpage, Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, Linked In, and other emerging platform content in collaboration with the Judge and Court leadership.
• Manage and update Court website, digital media, social media, and other content platforms, and public-facing materials.
• Develop timely and accurate information for display on way finding kiosks in the Montgomery County Courts Building, mail, social media, and other methods of communication.
• Maintain consistency in tone, branding, and messaging across all digital platforms.

• Identify public outreach opportunities and arrange speaking engagements for the Judge and Court leadership with civic, educational, professional, government, and community agencies.
• Coordinate community engagement and public education initiatives.
• Develop informational materials explaining probate processes and Court services.
• Represent the Court at outreach events and public forums.

• Oversee the use and maintenance of the court’s brand in all internal and external communication materials.
• Oversee and/or write promotional materials and publications, including the court’s annual report, brochures, information booklets, presentations, and related materials.
• Ensure consistent use of logos, templates, and messaging standards.
• Assist the Judge, court leadership, and staff in the drafting of articles, reports, pieces, blogs, and other writings for newspapers, bar associations, circulars, etc.
• Support development of special publications, reports, and strategic communications.

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Public Administration, or related field OR
• Equivalent of four (4) years of relevant experience, OR
• A combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Candidates being offered a position or promotion, as required, must pass a criminal background check.