Job Description: The Post-Conviction Litigation Unit (PCLU) defends convictions against collateral post-conviction claims brought by defendants who are either incarcerated or on parole or probation under the Uniform Post Conviction Procedure Act. The PCLU is unique within the Office because it does not involve trial work or routine court appearances. Instead, the PCLU conducts thoughtful analyses of criminal convictions obtained by trial prosecutors, mostly trials for major felonies such as sex crimes and homicides, and then defends these convictions in post-conviction hearings in the Baltimore City courts. This is a non-supervisory position. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- conducting thorough reviews of trial evidence, files, transcripts, and other records;
- interviewing police, attorneys, and civilian witnesses;
- researching relevant legal authority;
- drafting substantive written responses to post-conviction petitions;
- questioning witnesses and arguing points of fact and law in evidentiary hearings;
- attending regular PCLU staff meetings; and
- collaborating with many stakeholders, including executive staff, trial prosecutors, defense attorneys, witnesses, victims, and victims’ families to ensure that justice persists after the Office obtains a conviction.
Requirements: Candidate must possess a juris doctor degree and be licensed to practice law in the State of Maryland. The ideal candidate will have strong legal writing, research, and critical thinking skills and be detail-oriented, thorough, and organized. Prior criminal jury trial or appellate experience is preferred but not required.
These are full-time positions and may be eligible in the future for a hybrid telework schedule at the discretion of the agency. This position is a local government public service position which may qualify for Federal Student Aid Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
Salary range: $74,943 - $119,750 commensurate with experience
Comprehensive benefits package: Full range of health insurance provider options, vision insurance, dental insurance, deferred compensation option, life insurance, 10+ paid holidays per year, vacation leave, sick leave, and personal leave. The selected candidates will be required to submit to criminal background checks before starting employment.
To Apply: Applicants should email a cover letter, three (3) legal writing samples, and a resume to resume@stattorney.org with a subject line reference of “PCLU Prosecutor.” In the body of your transmittal email, please also indicate PCLU Prosecutor as the position for which you are applying. Applications are being accepted until the positions are filled.
THE OFFICE OF THE STATE’S ATTORNEY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER