DEPUTY STATE APPELLATE PUBLIC DEFENDER

Description

State of Idaho Opportunity

Deputy State Appellate Public Defender

Capital Litigation Unit

Full-time (40 hours)

$80,000 - $138,000 hr. D.O.E.

The Office of the State Appellate Public Defender is seeking an attorney to join its Capital Litigation Unit and provide zealous representation to indigent defendants who have been convicted of murder and sentenced to death. We seek an attorney who is committed to being part of a client-centered defense team, who will advocate on behalf of our clients with integrity and protect our client’s Constitutional rights.

 SCOPE OF WORK

Deputy State Appellate Public Defender in the Capital Litigation Unit participates in a collaborative team representation of capital clients. Each team is composed of a lead attorney, a deputy attorney, fact investigator, mitigation specialist, and an administrative assistant. The team represents indigent capital clients throughout the post-conviction proceedings in district court. If post-conviction proceedings are unsuccessful, the team represents the client in a unified direct/post-conviction appeal.

• Develop and maintain healthy client relationships of mutual trust and respect.
• Handle assigned substantive and procedural aspects of each case.
• Work collaboratively to develop a cohesive post-conviction strategy.
• Participate in the course of mitigation and fact investigations.
• Assist in the identification and drafting of appellate and post-conviction issues.
• Identify and vet expert and lay witnesses.
• Conduct evidentiary hearings and present oral arguments in appellate courts.
• Travel to courts, correctional institutions, and other locations within and outside the State of Idaho to attend court hearings and/or oral arguments, visit incarcerated clients, and conduct investigations.

Depending on the desire and qualifications of the applicant, the applicant may also be a candidate to fulfill the role of Lead Attorney, which would entail the oversite, management, and direction of team representation on any given case.

 WE ARE LOOKING FOR CANDIDATES WHO:

• Can provide client-driven representation.
• Have empathy and compassion towards clients and dedication to advocacy on behalf of those sentenced to death.
• Comfortable working with diverse individuals, including clients, their families, prosecutors, investigators, judges, experts, fact witnesses, and members of the public.
• Have excellent research, writing, and communication skills.
• Are detailed and able to exercise sound professional judgment.
• Have familiarity with civil procedure and the post-conviction process.
• Able to manage an active caseload of at least three capital cases in various stages of proceedings.
• Are committed to following the ABA Guidelines for the Appointment and Performance of Defense Counsel in Death Penalty Cases and the Supplementary Guidelines for the Mitigation Function of Defense Teams in Death Penalty Cases, as the minimum standard for quality representation.

WHY JOIN THE SAPD?

The State Appellate Public Defender strives to provide its employees with a work life balance. Employees enjoy a flexible schedule with the opportunity to telecommute.

• Nation’s leading public employee pension plan - PERSI
• Excellent low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Eleven paid holidays
• Paid vacation leave
• Paid sick leave
• Paid parental leave
• 401K and deferred compensation plan
• Life/Disability/Supplemental life insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending accounts
• Wellness programs
• Paid annual renewal fees for Idaho State Bar

The State of Idaho offers a robust compensation package, for a summary of benefits click here.

The State Appellate Public Defender is a qualifying employer for the purposes of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

 WHY BOISE, IDAHO?

Boise, Idaho consistently ranks high in quality of life and offers a balance of urban amenities and outdoor activities. The city has a vibrant cultural scene with music festivals and a growing food scene. Recreational opportunities such as fly-fishing, biking, skiing, kayaking, and hiking are all within close proximity. The Boise Greenbelt, a 25-mile-long path long the Boise River, is a favorite for walking, running and biking. Known for its friendly and welcoming community, Boise is a great place to start a new chapter in life.

ARE YOU READY TO APPLY?

If you are ready to join the team, please submit (1) cover letter, (2) resume with references, and (3) two writing samples. Applicants whose law school graduation is within three years of the application must also submit copies of their law school transcripts (unofficial transcripts will be accepted). Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until filled.

To accept this position, you must:

• Possess a J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Be admitted, or seeking admission, to the Idaho State Bar.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation.
• Be able to travel within and outside the State of Idaho.

For inquires on this position, please contact Rachel Murray, Office Administrator, at (208) 334-2712 or [email protected]. 

EEO/ADA/Veteran:

The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. Discrimination based on veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws, is prohibited.

The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email [email protected].

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.