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Maine Commission on Public Defense Services Opening Date: August 28, 2026
Closing Date: September 21, 2026
Grade / Admin Unit: 30 / Professional/Technical
Job Class Code: 0622
Salary: $71,843.20 - $101,587.20/Annually
Position Number: 200025236
Location: Augusta, Bangor or Caribou
Currently, this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions.DESCRIPTION: The Maine Commission on Public Defense Services is seeking to fill one Assistant Defender II position in the Criminal Division. Location to be determined between Augusta, Bangor or Caribou, depending on applicant's location. We are looking for a criminal defense lawyer or a law student planning to take the July bar exam who is committed to the mission of providing exemplary representation for people accused of crimes. This is a unique opportunity to join a public defender office that is part of a larger movement in Maine to transform indigent defense.
This is an entry level position, but we are looking for individuals who have demonstrated a desire to help the most vulnerable in their communities. This can be through a combination of employment, course work, and internships. The ideal candidate recently completed or will complete all coursework at an ABA accredited law school to receive a JD degree and plans to take the next available bar exam or has recently received their license to practice law. This individual exhibits exceptional planning/organizational skills, is self-directed and comfortable working with their defense team which includes attorneys, investigators, and office administrative staff.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:- Prior to passing the bar exam, you will assist attorneys representing defendants by providing support such as legal research and writing.
- After being sworn in as a licensed attorney, you will represent indigent criminal defendants in all aspects of their cases vigorously, effectively, ethically, and with integrity.
- First year attorneys generally being with misdemeanor cases but can quickly begin taking less serious felony cases as appropriate.
- Conduct client interviews and maintain notes and records of pertinent case facts sufficient to provide proper client representation.
- Research legal issues and write clear, concise motions.
- Obtain knowledge of the case through discovery and investigation sufficient to provide advice to clients regarding disposition.
- Develop a theory of the case that is consistent with the facts and the law.
- Willing to try appropriate cases.
- Duties are performed primarily in both office and courtroom settings.
- Travel is required.
KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED: - Knowledge of applicable Maine law and legal system.
- Knowledge of applicable state and federal laws, rules, and regulations.
- Knowledge of legal principles, practices, and protocol.
- Knowledge of litigation and legal counseling methods and techniques.
- Ability to analyze and interpret facts, evidence, and precedents and arrive at logical conclusions.
- Ability to negotiate contracts and settlements.
- Ability to lead and guide a legal team.
- Ability to prepare complex briefs and other legal documents.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
- Ability to operate a computer within an intelligent workstation including using Lexis/Nexis, Westlaw, etc.
- Ability to communicate effectively.
- Ability to write clearly and effectively.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:A Juris Doctor degree from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved school.
LICENSING/REGISTRATION/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: Licensed or the ability to become licensed to practice law in the State of Maine.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Please submit a cover letter along with a current resume and three (3) professional references.
In order for us to properly determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for any posting, you must be sure your resume includes the month and year for any relevant experience listed. Your resume should include the duties and responsibilities associated with each position. Any experience that was not full-time