Missouri State Public Defender
Career Opportunity
State Public Defender Director
The Missouri State Public Defender System (MSPD) is seeking a Department Director responsible for the overall operation and administration of the system to assume the role of Director July 1, 2025. The Director is appointed by a seven-member Commission to a four-year term. Work requires exercising oversight of a statewide indigent defense system to ensure quality legal representation of eligible persons. Although the Director position will not begin until July 1, 2025, the Commission has a preference that the individual will be available to begin work as the Director-elect in January, 2025.
The State Public Defender Director is responsible for oversight of an annual budget of approximately $78 million and direction of 696 employees in 47 offices across Missouri. The Director testifies before legislative bodies regarding legislation that impacts the system and MSPD clients. Missouri residency is a requirement for this position. Significant time will be spent in Columbia and Jefferson City, with travel throughout the state of Missouri also required.
QUALIFICATIONS: The Director must be an attorney licensed to practice law in the state of Missouri or have the qualifications to become a member of the Missouri Bar. Individual must have substantial experience in criminal defense; be dedicated to the goals of providing and improving the quality of legal representation; possess leadership experience within a large, diverse organization staffed with professionals; have strong organizational, analytical, and writing skills; have the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with government officials, judiciary, Commission members, employees, media, and the general public; have the ability to interpret, evaluate, and apply laws and policies relating to MSPD and to adapt existing programs to meet new and changing requirements; and possess the highest degree of integrity. The Director must devote full-time to the duties of the office and may not otherwise engage in the practice of law.
BENEFITS: Salary of $177,609/year and shall not exceed that of a Missouri Circuit Judge. In addition, the State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package including retirement; health, life, and long-term disability insurance; deferred compensation plan; paid holidays; vacation and sick leave; and excellent training opportunities.
HOW TO APPLY: Applicants must complete the Director Application to be eligible for employment consideration. A resume, cover letter, and professional references are also recommended. Click HERE to download the Director Application. Applications must be received no later than November 1, 2024 by mail or email to address below.
Mail:
Office of State Public Defender
Attn: Gina Hall, HR Manager
Woodrail Centre
1000 W. Nifong Bldg 7, Suite 100
Columbia, MO 65203
Email:
Director.Application@mspd.mo.gov