Attorney - Union

Public Defender Trial Attorney

Join the Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) as a Public Defender Trial Attorney. MSPD provides legal representation to indigent citizens throughout Missouri.

The Missouri Public Defender System (MSPD) is dedicated to providing legal representation to citizens accused of or convicted of crimes in Missouri who cannot afford an attorney. MSPD operates statewide through district offices strategically located throughout the state, from urban areas like Kansas City and St. Louis to rural environments. With over 700 professionals, MSPD handles diverse caseloads and prioritizes continuous professional development through nationally recognized trial skills courses.

• Client Advocacy:
  Develop and maintain professional relationships with clients through telephone communication, meetings, and institutional visits.
• Provide comprehensive legal counsel and guidance to clients at every stage of their case.
• Case Investigation:
  Conduct thorough investigations, including interviews with clients, witnesses, expert witnesses, and family members.
• Review law enforcement reports and examine discovery materials to build a solid defense strategy.
• Communication and Transparency:
  Keep clients informed about the progress of investigations, negotiations, and court rulings, ensuring open and transparent communication.
• Court Appearances:
  Attend regularly scheduled court dockets and all appearances related to the assigned caseload, effectively litigating all aspects of each client’s case through disposition at the trial court level.
• Legal Research and Document Preparation:
  Conduct legal research to stay abreast of statutes, regulations, and pertinent court decisions; prepare legal documents, including motions, pleadings, and briefs for hearings, trials, and legal proceedings.
• Trial Preparation:
  Prepare cases, clients, and witnesses for trial, ensuring a comprehensive and strategic approach.
• Client Interests and Holistic Approach:
  Promote and protect the best interests of clients at all times, incorporating a holistic approach to legal representation.
• Collaboration:
  
  Collaborate with colleagues and support staff to provide comprehensive legal services, fostering a team‑oriented approach to enhance the overall effectiveness of legal representation.
• Continuing Legal Education (CLE):
  Attend CLE sessions as required to stay updated on legal developments and enhance professional skills.

• Licensed to practice law in the State of Missouri, awaiting bar results, or transferring bar license from a different state.
• Passion for criminal defense and commitment to justice for indigent clients.
• Strong communication and advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage a diverse caseload with efficiency and attention to detail.
• Willingness to work in varied settings and adapt as necessary.
• Collaborative spirit to work effectively with support staff and legal team members.
• Openness to continuous learning and participation in training programs.

This is a full‑time position based in Union. The successful candidate will receive competitive compensation and State of Missouri benefits that include a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Learn more about benefits .gov. Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck. To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator.

This tool provides a comprehensive view of benefits and more that are offered to prospective employees. The Total Compensation Calculator and other applicant resources can be found .mo.gov.

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