Paralegal I & II

About the Role

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender, a State agency, is dedicated to equal employment opportunities and inclusivity, removing barriers for all qualified candidates regardless of various protected characteristics. The agency values effective communication and the ability to thrive in dynamic environments. Accommodations will be provided as needed for applicants or employees with disabilities to enable equal participation and access to job functions.

The agency seeks capable and detail-oriented individuals with strong communication, legal research, and organizational skills to support attorneys through full-time Paralegal I and II positions.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform legal research and assist attorneys in case preparations.
• Conduct investigations and gather relevant documentation via Maryland Public Information Act processes.
• Prepare case files and draft various legal documents including subpoenas.
• File legal documents with courts and support pre-hearing preparations.
• Interview clients and witnesses and correspond with them as necessary.
• Review court, police, Department of Social Services, and trial files.
• Serve legal documents and provide clerical assistance.
• Engage with indigent defendants and their families in different settings including office, court, detention centers, hospitals, and prisons.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Paralegal I: Minimum two years of experience as a legal assistant or secretary involving legal research or document preparation; Paralegal II: Minimum three years of such experience.
• Alternatives to required experience include 30 credit hours or a paralegal certificate from an accredited college, 30 credit hours from law school, or U.S. military paralegal specialist experience counting on a year-for-year basis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic understanding of criminal law terminology and procedures.
• Familiarity with Westlaw or equivalent legal research platforms.
• Interest in supporting underprivileged defendants and their families.
• Experience working with individuals facing cognitive or mental health challenges.
• Strong organizational, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience managing and reviewing body camera footage.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

Additional Information

• These positions involve no supervisory responsibilities.
• Employees may need to operate a motor vehicle and thus require a valid Maryland driver's license.
• Work location is 217 E. Redwood St, Baltimore, MD 21202.

Selection and Examination

Candidates meeting minimum qualifications will undergo an evaluation based on education, training, and experience, potentially including a qualification supplement. Successful applicants will be ranked and placed on an employment eligible list for at least one year.

Benefits

State of Maryland benefits are provided to employees.

How to Apply

Applicants are encouraged to apply online. Paper applications can be faxed and inquiries directed to the Office of the Public Defender Human Resources Division. Contact details and instructions are provided for accommodations or for additional help.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender supports recruiting a diverse workforce and encourages veterans, people with disabilities, and bilingual individuals to apply.