Your Role with OSPD – Attorney
Embark on a career path that blends impactful legal work, team collaboration, and a commitment to justice. Here’s an overview of what to expect when you join the agency in achieving a more just criminal legal system.
A Variety of Roles and Responsibilities
OSPD works to ensure that every attorney in our agency has the tools to be an excellent attorney for their clients and the support and tools to grow their skills. We provide training, support and mentorship for attorneys to grow the following skills, depending on their roles.
Legal Research & Strategic Development: Engage in extensive legal research and develop innovative litigation strategies, demonstrating strong analytical and strategic thinking.
Writing & Advocacy: Excel in crafting persuasive legal documents and representing clients with conviction in court, showcasing a commitment to exceptional writing and effective advocacy.
Client Relations: Build and maintain trust with clients, ensuring their rights and dignity are upheld through professional and compassionate representation.
Supporting Line Public Defenders: Some attorneys will have the opportunity to work closely with and support line public defenders, providing expertise, mentorship, and assistance in complex cases.
Training and Research Assistance: Supervise and develop statewide training initiatives or provide research assistance to public defenders and criminal justice organizations.
Capacity Building: Participate in the development and enhancement of indigent defense services through research, analysis, and program development.
Leadership: Lead in specialized areas such as amicus litigation, non-capital appellate cases, and systemic legal reforms.
Impactful Legal Work
Advocacy and Systemic Reform: Advocate for systemic change and legal reform, contributing to a more equitable and just legal system in California.
Appellate Work: Engage in a range of appellate work, with a clear focus on capital cases, emphasizing good writing and strategic thinking to champion the rights of clients and influence the development of appellate jurisprudence.
Collaborative Environment and Support
OSPD has a unique case team model that allows for collaboration.
Team Collaboration: Work within interdisciplinary teams, combining diverse skills and perspectives to enhance case management and legal strategies.
Continuous Learning & Mentorship: OSPD is dedicated to continuous professional development, offering opportunities for learning, mentorship, and leadership growth.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB): Commit to promoting an inclusive and equitable work environment, reflecting OSPD’s dedication to diversity and justice.
Join Our Team
At OSPD, attorneys find a unique blend of challenge and purpose. It’s more than just a workplace; it’s a platform where passion for public defense, strategic legal thinking, and commitment to societal impact come together. OSPD offers an enriching environment for attorneys driven to make a difference, work collaboratively, and excel in their legal careers. Join us and be part of a team dedicated to upholding justice and transforming lives through dedicated public defense.