OPD is seeking a Staff Attorney for Municipal and Traffic Court.
We represent thousands of people each year utilizing a client-centered, community-oriented defense model that puts the client first and takes a 360 degree approach to our advocacy and representation. We recognize our clients are unique individuals and work to address their needs both in the court and out. Our diverse staff includes adult and juvenile attorneys; social workers; client, youth and parent advocates; investigators, and administrators all working together for equal justice for our clients, their families, our community, and a better New Orleans. In short, we protect innocence, defend the constitution, demand justice, and hold power accountable.
OPD is committed to providing zealous client-centered, community-oriented defense. Each client’s needs are supported by a dedicated legal team: attorneys, investigators, client advocates, social workers and court support administrators.
Our attorneys zealously defend clients against criminal charges in Criminal, Municipal and Traffic and Juvenile Court immediately following arrest all the way through sentencing and post-conviction. Our client-centered approach focuses on serving the client’s interest and meeting their individual needs to achieve the best outcome for each client.
Duties: The Municipal and Traffic Staff Attorney acts as court-appointed counsel representing clients facing misdemeanor charges in Municipal and Traffic Court. The Staff Attorney represents appointed clients in all phases of criminal proceedings, including first appearances, arraignment, pretrial hearings, trial preparation, plea negotiations, trial, and sentencing. The Staff Attorney is responsible for the investigation and preparation of assigned cases. The Staff Attorney is expected to visit incarcerated clients in jail as much as necessary to keep clients informed about and active in their cases. The Staff Attorney assists OPD management and other staff, as directed, and complies with all legal and professional standards and requirements.
The primary role of the Staff Attorney is to zealously represent the client in criminal proceedings in Municipal Court. In addition, the Staff Attorney (to the extent possible) is expected to maintain a continuing duty to the client. The Staff Attorney counsels and renders or assists in securing appropriate legal services for the client in matters arising from the original criminal proceeding and maintains contact to ensure the protection of the client’s rights as long as the client remains under court jurisdiction.
Essential Selection Criteria include: Candidates must be licensed to practice law in the State of Louisiana and be in good standing. Candidates must have a demonstrated interest in working with individuals charged with criminal offenses; must be able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; and must work well with people of various socioeconomic, cultural, and educational backgrounds. The ability to use and understand various computer software database, spreadsheet, and word processing and networking programs is required.
This is a full-time posistion with competitive pay and benefits. The salary range is $60,000 - $75,000, with exact salary commensurate with experience. No outside compensated work is permitted.
To Apply: Qualified and interested applicants must submit all of the following to be considered for this position: cover letter explaining your interest in the position, resume, writing sample, and a list of three references. Please complete the online application here. Application closing date is December 27, 2024 at 5pm CST. Incomplete applications will not be considered. No phone calls.
OPD is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to race, creed, color, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, veteran status or sexual orientation.
The Orleans Public Defenders provide representation to indigent criminal defendants in Orleans Parish. OPD’s mission is to fight for our clients by providing excellent client-centered representation, reforming the system and partnering with the community. OPD is committed to representation that respects the humanity and dignity of those within the criminal legal system.
