Qureos Mentor

Committee for Public Counsel Services

<div>Overview:
<p>
The Public Defender Division of CPCS, the Massachusetts public defender agency, is seeking a Supervising Attorney with a minimum of five years of experience providing criminal defense representation for its Holyoke Office in Hampden County. Candidates must have sufficient trial experience in both the Municipal, District, and Superior Courts so they are qualified to supervise all Trial Attorney staff.</p><p></p><div><b><br>
We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
Our Values</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
C</b><b>ourage &bull; </b><b>A</b><b>ccountability &bull; </b><b>R</b><b>espect &bull;</b><b> E</b><b>xcellence</b></div><div></div><p><br>
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT</p><div></div><p><br>
CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation. We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs. It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.</p><div></div><p><b><br>
AGENCY OVERVIEW</b></p><p></p><p><br>
CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one. The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.</p><div></div><p><br>
The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.</p><p></p><p><b><br>
OFFICE OVERVIEW</b></p><p></p><p><br>
With the largest per capita population of Puerto Ricans in any city outside of Puerto Rico itself, Holyoke is a small but diverse city with a rich cultural history located in the beautiful Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts. This exciting office has a mix of experienced public defenders and new voices shaping the local vision. The staff will provide zealous advocacy in the criminal district courts of Holyoke, Chicopee, and Palmer as well as the Hampden Superior Court.</p><p></p><p><b><br>
POSITION OVERVIEW</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The Public Defender Division of CPCS, Lawrence Office, is seeking a Supervising Attorney, with a <b>minimum of five years of experience</b> providing criminal defense representation. Under the direction of the office&rsquo;s Attorney in Charge, the Supervising Attorney will assist in the supervision of Trial Attorneys and will also have their own reduced caseload. Clients are indigent persons charged with criminal offenses within the final jurisdiction of the respective court.
</p>Qualifications:
<p><b>
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The following attributes are required for the position of Supervising Attorney:</p><ul><li>
Must be eligible to practice law in Massachusetts either as a member of the Massachusetts bar in good standing or as the member of the bar of another jurisdiction eligible to engage in limited Massachusetts practice under Supreme Court Rule 3:04;
</li><li>A <b>minimum of five years of experience</b> providing criminal defense representation in District and Superior Courts;
</li><li>Access to an automobile in order to travel to courts, clients, and investigation locations that are not easily accessible by public transportation; and,</li><li>
Access to home internet access sufficient to work remotely.</li></ul><p><b>
Candidates must have sufficient trial experience in both the District and Superior Courts so they may supervise all Trial Attorney staff</b><b>.</b></p><p><br>
</p><p><b>QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The following attributes are preferred for the position of Supervising Attorney:</p><ul><li>
Significant jury trial experience as lead counsel in criminal cases; including Superior Court cases;</li><li>
Commitment to working with a culturally diverse, low-income population,</li><li>
Willingness and ability to work positively and collaboratively with both the Attorney in Charge and Supervisees;</li><li>
A demonstrated commitment to the principle of zealous advocacy in the representation of indigent persons in criminal cases;</li><li>
Ability and commitment to complete annual performance evaluations in a timely and comprehensive manner;</li><li>
Strong interpersonal and analytical skills;</li><li>
Ability to work in community and defense-oriented capacity, both independently and collaboratively; and,</li><li>
Foreign language skills, Spanish in particular, are desirable.</li></ul>
Responsibilities:
<p><b>
RESPONSIBILITIES</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The Supervising Attorney will supervise Trial Attorneys assigned to Municipal, District, and Superior Court cases in addition to their case responsibilities. The Supervising Attorney must be capable of supervising new Trial Attorneys as well as experienced Trial Attorneys practicing in the Superior Court, particularly around serious felony or otherwise complex cases.</p><p></p><p><br>
The direct representation duties of the Supervising Attorney include:</p><ul><li>
Client interviews;</li><li>
Arraignment and bail advocacy;</li><li>
Legal research and writing;</li><li>
Pretrial investigation including visiting crime scenes, locating and interviewing witnesses, collecting and reviewing documentary evidence;</li><li>
Preparing and arguing pretrial motions, affidavits and legal memoranda;</li><li>
Dispositional investigations and advocacy;</li><li>
Jury and bench trials of criminal cases; and,
</li><li>Representation of clients in interlocutory proceedings.</li></ul><p>
The supervisory duties of the Supervising Attorney include, but are not limited to, the following in accordance with the CPCS Guidelines for Supervision of Public Defender Trial Attorneys and the Guidelines for the Implementation of Unified Public Defender Division Offices:</p><ul><li>
Regular one-on-one meetings with individual supervisees to review case files, as well as group meetings, to review case preparation and performance;</li><li>
In-court supervision, including second-seating of trials and significant pretrial hearings;</li><li>
Preparation of annual performance evaluations;</li><li>
Presentation of in-office training sessions;
</li><li>Supervision of other staff, such as investigators and student interns, as delegated by the office&rsquo;s Attorney in Charge; and,</li><li>
Other duties as assigned.</li></ul><div>
EEO Statement</div><div><br>
</div><p>The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran or military status, genetic information, gender identity, or sexual orientation as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other applicable federal and state statutes and organizational policies. Applicants who have questions about equal employment opportunity or who need reasonable accommodations can contact the Chief Human Resources Officer, Sandra DeBow-Huang, at sdebow@publiccounsel.net</p></div>

Supervising Attorney - PDD Holyoke

<div>Overview:
<p>
The Public Defender Division of CPCS, the Massachusetts public defender agency, is seeking a Supervising Attorney with a minimum of five years of experience providing criminal defense representation for its Malden Office. Candidates must have sufficient trial experience in both the Municipal, District, and Superior Courts so they are qualified to supervise all Trial Attorney staff.</p><p></p><div><b><br>
We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
Our Values</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
C</b><b>ourage &bull; </b><b>A</b><b>ccountability &bull; </b><b>R</b><b>espect &bull;</b><b> E</b><b>xcellence</b></div><div></div><p><br>
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT</p><div></div><p><br>
CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation. We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs. It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.</p><div></div><p><b><br>
AGENCY OVERVIEW</b></p><p></p><p><br>
CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one. The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.</p><div></div><p><br>
The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.</p><p></p><p><b><br>
OFFICE OVERVIEW</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The Public Defender Division Malden Office is located in Middlesex County and is approximately four miles away from downtown Boston. The office is centrally located in the heart of the Malden civic center and has excellent highway accessibility (Route 93, Route 28, and Route 60) while also being in close proximity to the Malden Square MBTA train station and a MBTA bus stop.</p><p></p><p><br>
Please access our webpage here: https://www.publiccounsel.net/dir/malden-dist-pd/</p><p></p><p><b><br>
POSITION OVERVIEW</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The Public Defender Division of CPCS, Lawrence Office, is seeking a Supervising Attorney, with a <b>minimum of five years of experience</b> providing criminal defense representation. Under the direction of the office&rsquo;s Attorney in Charge, the Supervising Attorney will assist in the supervision of Trial Attorneys and will also have their own reduced caseload. Clients are indigent persons charged with criminal offenses within the final jurisdiction of the respective court.
</p>Qualifications:
<p><b>
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The following attributes are required for the position of Supervising Attorney:</p><ul><li>
Must be eligible to practice law in Massachusetts either as a member of the Massachusetts bar in good standing or as the member of the bar of another jurisdiction eligible to engage in limited Massachusetts practice under Supreme Court Rule 3:04;
</li><li>A <b>minimum of five years of experience</b> providing criminal defense representation in District and Superior Courts;
</li><li>Access to an automobile in order to travel to courts, clients, and investigation locations that are not easily accessible by public transportation; and,</li><li>
Access to home internet access sufficient to work remotely.</li></ul><p><b>
Candidates must have sufficient trial experience in both the District and Superior Courts so they may supervise all Trial Attorney staff</b><b>.</b></p><p><br>
</p><p><b>QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The following attributes are preferred for the position of Supervising Attorney:</p><ul><li>
Significant jury trial experience as lead counsel in criminal cases; including Superior Court cases;</li><li>
Commitment to working with a culturally diverse, low-income population,</li><li>
Willingness and ability to work positively and collaboratively with both the Attorney in Charge and Supervisees;</li><li>
A demonstrated commitment to the principle of zealous advocacy in the representation of indigent persons in criminal cases;</li><li>
Ability and commitment to complete annual performance evaluations in a timely and comprehensive manner;</li><li>
Strong interpersonal and analytical skills;</li><li>
Ability to work in community and defense-oriented capacity, both independently and collaboratively; and,</li><li>
Foreign language skills, Spanish in particular, are desirable.</li></ul>
Responsibilities:
<p><b>
RESPONSIBILITIES</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The Supervising Attorney will supervise Trial Attorneys assigned to Municipal, District, and Superior Court cases in addition to their case responsibilities. The Supervising Attorney must be capable of supervising new Trial Attorneys as well as experienced Trial Attorneys practicing in the Superior Court, particularly around serious felony or otherwise complex cases.</p><p></p><p><br>
The direct representation duties of the Supervising Attorney include:</p><ul><li>
Client interviews;</li><li>
Arraignment and bail advocacy;</li><li>
Legal research and writing;</li><li>
Pretrial investigation including visiting crime scenes, locating and interviewing witnesses, collecting and reviewing documentary evidence;</li><li>
Preparing and arguing pretrial motions, affidavits and legal memoranda;</li><li>
Dispositional investigations and advocacy;</li><li>
Jury and bench trials of criminal cases; and,
</li><li>Representation of clients in interlocutory proceedings.</li></ul><p>
The supervisory duties of the Supervising Attorney include, but are not limited to, the following in accordance with the CPCS Guidelines for Supervision of Public Defender Trial Attorneys and the Guidelines for the Implementation of Unified Public Defender Division Offices:</p><ul><li>
Regular one-on-one meetings with individual supervisees to review case files, as well as group meetings, to review case preparation and performance;</li><li>
In-court supervision, including second-seating of trials and significant pretrial hearings;</li><li>
Preparation of annual performance evaluations;</li><li>
Presentation of in-office training sessions;
</li><li>Supervision of other staff, such as investigators and student interns, as delegated by the office&rsquo;s Attorney in Charge; and,</li><li>
Other duties as assigned.</li></ul><div>
EEO Statement</div><div><br>
</div><p>The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran or military status, genetic information, gender identity, or sexual orientation as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other applicable federal and state statutes and organizational policies. Applicants who have questions about equal employment opportunity or who need reasonable accommodations can contact the Chief Human Resources Officer, Sandra DeBow-Huang, at sdebow@publiccounsel.net</p></div>

Supervising Attorney - PDD Malden

<div>Overview:
<div>
The Public Defender Division (PDD) of CPCS is seeking applicants for Summer 2026 internship positions across the Commonwealth. We are interested in law students (both with and without SJC Rule 3:03 Certification), graduate students, and undergraduate students for opportunities in the Public Defender Division.</div><div><br>
</div><div><b>We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote
</b></div><div><b>just public policy to protect the rights of all.</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
Our Values</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
 </b><b>C</b><b>ourage &bull; </b><b>A</b><b>ccountability &bull; </b><b>R</b><b>espect &bull; </b><b>E</b><b>xcellence</b></div><div></div><div><br>
We stand with our Clients and the Community in the fight for Justice. We are dedicated to providing zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the protection of fundamental constitutional and human rights. Our staff across the Commonwealth embodies a diverse group of people from different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. It is through these differences in age, ethnicity, geographic origin, race, faith, religion, and progressive values, that we are able to best serve our clients. Through our internship program we seek to hire, develop, and hopefully retain talented people from all backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from non-traditional backgrounds, historically marginalized, or underrepresented groups to apply.</div><div></div><div><br>
The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS attorneys to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.</div><div></div><div><br>
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT</div><div></div><div><br>
CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation. We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs. It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility each member of the CPCS community.</div><div></div><div><b><br>
AGENCY OVERVIEW</b></div><div></div><div><br>
The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one. The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, child welfare, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.</div><div></div><div><b><br>
PUBLIC DEFENDER DIVISION OVERVIEW</b></div><div><br>
</div><div>Public Defender Division (PDD) Trial Offices</div><div></div><div><br>
Interns will work closely with attorneys, Social Services Advocates, and Investigators by providing legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients who are charged with criminal offenses in both the District and Superior Courts. Trial offices will provide interns with a wide range of opportunities, including, but not limited to, legal research and writing, arraignment and bail advocacy, second seating trials, pretrial investigations including visiting crime scenes, locating and interviewing witnesses.</div><div><br>
</div><div>Public Defender Division Appeals Unit</div><div></div><div><br>
The Public Defender Division has a statewide Appeals Unit, based in the Boston office, whose lawyers provide appellate advocacy in cases tried by Public Defender Division attorneys. Interns will assist skilled Appeals Unit attorneys represent clients before the Massachusetts Appeals Court and the Supreme Judicial Court, and occasionally in Federal Court. Interns will have opportunities to do a great deal of legal research and writing, including drafting legal memos and sections/entire briefs, and will be encouraged to observe oral arguments.</div>
Qualifications:
<div><b>
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS</b></div><div></div><div><br>
Interested candidates should have a demonstrated commitment to the principle of zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the protection of fundamental constitutional and human rights.
</div><div>Candidates must also:</div><ul><li>
Have access to reliable transportation in order to travel to courts, clients, and investigation locations that are not easily accessible by public transportation; and,
</li><li>Have access to a personal computer with home internet access sufficient to work remotely.</li></ul><div><b>
APPLICATION INFORMATION</b></div><div></div><div><br>
Interested applicants should submit (1) <b>Resume</b>, (2)<b> Personal Mission Statement (no more than two pages detailing your interest in the internship, your personal qualities and background, and what draws you to this work, and (3) Writing Sample.
</b></div><div>Applicants should specify preferred office locations for the Summer 2026 Internship Program.</div><div></div><div><b><br>
Applications received prior to January 10, 2026 will be given preference.</b></div><div><br>
</div><div><b>INTERNSHIP FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES</b></div><div></div><div><br>
CPCS has a limited number of paid internship opportunities for Summer 2026. In order to be considered, applicants may complete the following application: https://www.publiccounsel.net/hr/cpcs-intern-scholarship-program/</div><div></div><div><br>
For students who are not selected for a paid internship, CPCS can work with students to support the receipt of externship credit or outside funding.
</div>Responsibilities:
<div><b>
OVERVIEW OF REGIONS AND PDD OFFICE LOCATIONS</b></div><div></div><div><br>
SOUTHEAST REGION</div><div></div><div><br>
The Southeast Region is home to an ethnically, racially, and linguistically diverse population of immigrants dating back to the 19th century whaling industry. Brockton known as the &ldquo;City of Champions&rdquo; because it was home to former undefeated heavyweight boxing champion, Rocky Marciano, and middleweight boxing champion Marvin Hagler. Fall River was once the leading textile manufacturer center in the country and maintains the world&rsquo;s largest collection of World War II naval vessels at Battleship Cove. New Bedford is home to the Whaling National Historic Park. Hyannis is known as the gateway to esteemed Cape Cod and is home to the iconic Kennedy family compound. The area offers beautiful sand beaches, numerous state parks, and quaint towns with picturesque harbors.</div><div><br>
</div><div><b><i>The Southeast Region of CPCS includes Public Defender Division office locations in Brockton, Hyannis, Fall River, and New Bedford.</i></b></div><div><br>
</div><div>NORTHEAST REGION</div><div></div><div><br>
The Northeast Region is filled with history. Framingham is known as the location of an annual gathering spot for members of the abolitionist movement in the years prior to the American Civil War. Lawrence and Lowell are cities known for their textile manufacturing, many of these historic manufacturing sites are preserved by the National Park Service. Lowell is known as the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. During the Cambodian genocide, the city took in an influx of refugees, leading to Lowell having the second largest Cambodian-American population in the country. During the American Revolution, the citizenry of Malden were heavily involved in the early resistance of the oppression of Britain and was the first town to petition the colonial government to withdraw from the British Empire. Malden less than 5 miles northwest of Boston and conveniently accessible from the Orange Line. Salem is one of the most significant seaports in early American history and it is well-known for its role as the location of the Salem Witch Trials.</div><div><br>
</div><div><b><i>The Northeast Region of CPCS includes Public Defender Division office locations in Framingham, Lawrence, Lowell, Malden and Salem.</i></b></div><div></div><div><br>
WEST REGION</div><div><br>
</div><div>The West Region has a diverse topography, including the Berkshire Mountains, the Connecticut River Valley, and Worcester County, the largest county in the Commonwealth. The region is home to 22 colleges/universities which is the 2nd highest concentration of higher learning institutions aside from the Boston Metropolitan area. The area has long been patronized by artists and is recognized for the Eric Carle Museum, Tanglewood, and Norman Rockwell Museum. The area is famous for all of its &ldquo;first innovations&rdquo; including basketball, volleyball, American gas-powered automobile, motorcycle company, commercial radio station, use of integrated parts in manufacturing, railroad sleep car, and the American dictionary. The city of Worcester became a center for the American Revolution that was recognized for his industry and as a result attracted many immigrants of European descent. The city of Springfield was designated by George Washington for an Armory that became the site of Shay&rsquo;s Rebellion and is now a national park and site to the world&rsquo;s largest collection of historic American firearms. The city played a pivotal role in the Civil War as a stop for the Underground Railroad.</div><div><br>
</div><div><b><i>The West Region of CPCS includes Public Defender Division office locations in Worcester, Holyoke, Pittsfield, Springfield, and Northampton.</i></b></div><div></div><div><br>
CENTRAL REGION</div><div><br>
</div><div>The Central Region is famous for its rich history. Boston is not only the capital of the Commonwealth but one of the oldest municipalities in the United States and the scene of several significant events in the American Revolution, such as the Boston Massacre, the Boston Tea Party, the Battle of Bunker Hill, and the Siege of Boston. It was a port and manufacturing hub and a center of education and culture, as well as home to the first public park, public school, and subway system in the United States. The area is home to professional sports teams, including Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics, and the Boston Red Sox. Roxbury is known to serve as the &ldquo;heart of black culture in Boston&rdquo; and is home to an extremely diverse population. The city of Quincy is recognized as the &ldquo;City of Presidents&rdquo; as it was the birthplace of John Adams, and his son John Quincy Adams, as well as, John Hancock, who was president of the Continental Congress and first signor of the Declaration of Independence, and first and third governor of Massachusetts. This city was home to the first commercial railroad in the United States and had a thriving granite industry.</div><div><br>
</div><div><b><i>The Central Region of CPCS includes Public Defender Division office locations in Boston, Roxbury, and Quincy. The Public Defender Division Appeals Unit office is located in Boston.</i></b></div><p></p><p><br>
EEO Statement</p><p><br>
</p><p>The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran or military status, genetic information, gender identity, or sexual orientation as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other applicable federal and state statutes and organizational policies. Applicants who have questions about equal employment opportunity or who need reasonable accommodations can contact the Chief Human Resources Officer, Sandra DeBow-Huang at sdebow@publiccounsel.net</p></div>

Internship Opportunities - Summer 2026 - Public Defender Division - Statewide

<div>Overview:
<div>
The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is seeking applicants for the Summer Racial Justice Internship Program. Interns will be assigned to work with various offices, including the Training Department and the Director of Equity &amp; Inclusion.</div><div></div><div><b><br>
We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
Our Values</b></div><div><br>
</div><div><b>C</b><b>ourage &bull; </b><b>A</b><b>ccountability &bull; </b><b>R</b><b>espect &bull; </b><b>E</b><b>xcellence</b></div><div></div><div><br>
We stand with our Clients and the Community in the fight for Justice. We are dedicated to providing zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense and protection of fundamental constitutional and human rights. Our staff across the Commonwealth embodies a diverse group of people from different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. It is through these differences in age, ethnicity, geographic origin, race, faith, religion, and progressive values, that we are able to best serve our clients. Through our internship program we seek to hire, develop, and hopefully retain talented people from all backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from non-traditional backgrounds, historically marginalized, or underrepresented groups to apply.</div><div></div><div><br>
The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS attorneys to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.</div><div></div><div><br>
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT</div><div></div><div><br>
CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation. We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs. It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility each member of the CPCS community.</div><div></div><div><b><br>
AGENCY OVERVIEW</b></div><div></div><div><br>
The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one. The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, child welfare, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.</div>
Qualifications:
<p><b>
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS</b></p><p></p><div><br>
Candidates must be current undergraduate, graduate, or law school students who are committed to racial and social justice and have demonstrated an interest in addressing systemic racism in the justice system. Interns selected for the position must be able to commit to at least 8 weeks of full-time employment for the Summer.</div><div><br>
</div><div>Preferred candidates will be students who have taken classes in evidence, criminal law, criminal procedure, constitutional law, critical legal theory, and/or trial advocacy, have experience with data collection and analysis, experience working with low-income clients, people of color, immigrants, LGBT people, and other underrepresented groups, as well as familiarity working with individual with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders.
</div><div>Interns should have (1) experience with Microsoft Office suite, (2) ability to maintain confidentiality, (3) excellent written and verbal communication skills, (4) strong teamwork and collaboration abilities, and (5) legal research and writing experience.</div><p><br>
</p><p>Candidates must also:</p><ul><li>
Have access to reliable transportation in order to travel to courts, clients, and investigation locations that are not easily accessible by public transportation; and,</li><li>
Have access to a personal computer with home internet access sufficient to work remotely</li></ul><p>
Interested candidates should have a demonstrated commitment to the principle of zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the protection of fundamental constitutional and human rights.</p><p><br>
</p><div><b>APPLICATION INFORMATION</b></div><div></div><div><br>
Interested applicants should submit (1) <b>Resume</b>, (2)<b> Personal Mission Statement (no more than two pages detailing your interest in the internship, your personal qualities and background, and what draws you to this work, (3) Writing Sample, (4) L</b><b>ist of References.</b></div><div></div><div><br>
Applications received prior to <b>January 10, 2026</b>, will be given preference.</div><div><br>
</div><div><b>INTERNSHIP FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES</b></div><div></div><div><br>
CPCS has a limited number of paid internship opportunities for Summer 2026. In order to be considered, applicants may complete the following application: https://www.publiccounsel.net/hr/cpcs-intern-scholarship-program/</div><div></div><div><br>
For students who are not selected for a paid internship, CPCS can work with students to support the receipt of externship credit or outside funding.
</div>Responsibilities:
<div><b>
OPPORTUNITIES</b></div><div></div><div><br>
Interns will be assigned to work with various offices within CPCS that touch on our substantive work, including the Training Department and with the Director of Equity &amp; Inclusion. The Training Division is tasked with supporting attorneys and staff by training and educating them on implicit bias and systemic racism within the justice systems and formulating methods to recognize and overcome racism within these systems on behalf of the clients we serve. The Equity &amp; Inclusion Department works on initiatives and strategies that impact fairness and inclusion among internal and external stakeholders to our work. Interns will be an integral part of our office and work closely with our team of dedicated managers, racial equity trainers, attorneys, social service advocates and investigators. Additionally, interns will work with the Racial Equity Committee, and other Racial Equity Initiatives throughout the Agency to assist in building racial justice capacity through litigation, policy advocacy, education and training of attorney, staff and other justice stakeholders.</div><div></div><div><b><br>
RESPONSIBILITIES</b></div><div></div><div><br>
Interns will work directly with CPCS supervisors, staff attorneys, investigators, and social service advocates on (1) legal research and writing, (2) conducting legal and policy research on racial and justice issues, (3) data collection, analysis and presentation, (4) assisting in preparing and conducting race- based trainings, and (5) providing additional assistance to attorneys and staff on issues of racial equity.</div><p><br>
</p><p>EEO Statement</p><p><br>
</p><p>The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran or military status, genetic information, gender identity, or sexual orientation as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other applicable federal and state statutes and organizational policies. Applicants who have questions about equal employment opportunity or who need reasonable accommodations can contact the Chief Human Resources Officer, Sandra DeBow-Huang at sdebow@publiccounsel.net</p></div>

Internship Opportunities - Summer 2026 - Racial Justice Internship Program

<div>Overview:
<p>
The Mental Health Litigation Division of CPCS is seeking applicants for Summer 2026 internship positions in our Civil Commitment trial offices located in Brockton, Northampton, Roxbury, and Worcester offices and in our Trial Support and Oversight unit located in Boston. We are interested in law students both with and without SJC Rule 3:03 Certification for opportunities with the Mental Health Litigation Division.</p><div></div><div><br>
</div><div><b>We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
Our Values</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
 </b><b>C</b><b>ourage &bull; </b><b>A</b><b>ccountability &bull; </b><b>R</b><b>espect &bull; </b><b>E</b><b>xcellence</b></div><div></div><div><br>
We stand with our Clients and the Community in the fight for Justice. We are dedicated to providing zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense and protection of fundamental constitutional and human rights. Our staff across the Commonwealth embodies a diverse group of people from different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. It is through these differences in age, ethnicity, geographic origin, race, faith, religion, and progressive values, that we are able to best serve our clients. Through our internship program we seek to hire, develop, and hopefully retain talented people from all backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from non-traditional backgrounds, historically marginalized, or underrepresented groups to apply.</div><div></div><div><br>
The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS attorneys to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.</div><div></div><div><br>
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT</div><div></div><div><br>
CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation. We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs. It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility each member of the CPCS community.</div><div></div><div><b><br>
AGENCY OVERVIEW</b></div><div></div><div><br>
The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one. The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, child welfare, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.</div>
Qualifications:
<div><b>
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS</b></div><div></div><p><br>
Interested candidates should have a demonstrated commitment to the principle of zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the protection of fundamental constitutional and human rights.</p><p><br>
</p><p>Candidates must also have access to:</p><ul><li>
Reliable transportation or public transportation to travel to courts and hospitals, and,</li><li>
A personal computer with home internet access sufficient to work remotely.</li></ul><div><b>
APPLICATION INFORMATION</b></div><div></div><p><br>
Interested applicants should submit (1) <b>Resume</b>, (2)<b> Personal Mission Statement (no more than two pages detailing your interest in the internship, your personal qualities and background, and what draws you to this work, and (3) Writing Sample.</b></p><p><br>
</p><p>Applicants should specify preferred office locations for the Summer 2026 Internship Program.</p><p></p><p><b><br>
Applications received prior to January 10, 2026 will be given preference.</b></p><p><br>
</p><div><b>INTERNSHIP FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES</b></div><div></div><div><br>
CPCS has a limited number of paid internship opportunities for Summer 2026. In order to be considered, applicants may complete the following application: https://www.publiccounsel.net/hr/cpcs-intern-scholarship-program/</div><div></div><div><br>
For students who are not selected for a paid internship, CPCS can work with students to support the receipt of externship credit or outside funding.</div><div></div><p><br>
</p>Responsibilities:
<div><b>
MENTAL HEALTH LITIGATION DIVISION OVERVIEW</b></div><div><br>
</div><div>The Mental Health Litigation Division provides individuals with attorneys for Civil Commitment proceedings in the District and Superior Courts and provides attorneys for appointment by the Probate and Family Courts to represent persons in Guardianships and Substituted Judgment proceedings, including cases involving Conservatorship, Elder Abuse, the Validation of Health Care Proxies, Nursing Home Admission and Do Not Resuscitate orders. Civil Commitments are handled by both staff and private attorneys, while most cases in the Probate Court are handled by private panel attorneys.</div><div>
In addition to our staff offices in Brockton, Roxbury, Northampton, and Worcester, the MHLD has attorneys in our trial support and oversight office and our training department. All our attorneys receive training in issues relating to mental health and the statutory and constitutional rights of our clients. The Mental Health Litigation Division offers interns a variety of experiences and assignments under the supervision of highly experienced attorneys.</div><div></div><div><br>
Mental Health Commitment Defense Units</div><div></div><div><br>
The MHLD offices located in Brockton, Northampton, Roxbury, and Worcester seeks interns and law coop students who have completed their 2L year and are or can be 3:03 certified to assist attorneys with representation of citizens facing involuntary civil commitment to mental health facilities, and involuntary medical treatment for mental illness, including the administration of anti-psychotic medications. 1Ls are welcome to intern with the commitment defense offices to assist with client calls, reviewing medical records and legal research. Interns in MHLD commitment offices will</div><br>
<div></div><ul><li>
Shadow several attorneys during their internship,
</li><li>Develop a working understanding of G.L. c. 123 and the requirements for civil commitment, District and Municipal Court commitment proceedings, court-ordered medication proceedings, and the rules of evidence as applied in mental health cases,</li><li>
Visit clients and conduct interviews to obtain relevant information and ascertain the client&rsquo;s position on their pending petition(s)</li><li>
Work with independent medical experts including psychiatrists, psychologists, social service experts, and other mental health professionals as requested by staff attorneys,</li><li>
Work with attorneys to prepare motions for funds, motions for in person hearings, review medical records, direct examinations, cross-examination of Designated Forensic Psychologists and Psychiatrists and closing arguments,</li><li>
Develop research on race and equity issues in civil commitments and assist in developing a litigation guide for such issues, Conduct research into support for novel issues or arguments.</li></ul><div><br>
</div><div>Mental Health Litigation Division Trial Support and Oversight Unit</div><div></div><div><br>
The Mental Health Trial Support and Oversight Unit based in Boston supports and oversees the private panel attorneys handling civil commitments and probate court matters. TSOU seeks law students who have completed their 1L year to</div><br>
<div></div><ul><li>
Conduct legal research on systemic and specific issues affecting clients with mental disabilities,
</li><li>Draft practice materials for attorneys representing clients in mental health matters,</li><li>
Handle intake line calls from patients and clients in mental health facilities and provide information about their legal status, assignment of counsel or referral,
</li><li>Trial Support interns also assist MHLD Training Unit attorneys to create and edit training materials, and to develop and maintain Mental Health online training and resource initiatives.</li></ul><p>
EEO Statement</p><p><br>
</p><p>The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran or military status, genetic information, gender identity, or sexual orientation as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other applicable federal and state statutes and organizational policies. Applicants who have questions about equal employment opportunity or who need reasonable accommodations can contact the Chief Human Resources Officer, Sandra DeBow-Huang at sdebow@publiccounsel.net</p></div><p></p>

Internship Opportunities - Summer 2026 - Mental Health Litigation Division - Statewide

<div>Overview:
<div>
The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), the public defender agency for Massachusetts, is seeking to fill an Administrative Assistant position for its Public Defender Division (PDD) Malden Office. PDD provides legal representation to adults in criminal court cases, including District, Municipal, and Superior Court.</div><div></div><div><b><br>
We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
Our Values</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
C</b><b>ourage &bull; </b><b>A</b><b>ccountability &bull; </b><b>R</b><b>espect &bull;</b><b> E</b><b>xcellence</b></div><div></div><p><br>
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT</p><div></div><p><br>
CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation. We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs. It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.</p><div></div><p><b><br>
AGENCY OVERVIEW</b></p><div></div><p><br>
CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one. The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.</p><div></div><p><br>
The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.</p><p></p><p><b><br>
OFFICE OVERVIEW</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The Public Defender Division Malden Office is located in Middlesex County and is approximately four miles away from downtown Boston. The office is centrally located in the heart of the Malden civic center and has excellent highway accessibility (Route 93, Route 28, and Route 60) while also being in close proximity to the Malden Square MBTA train station and a MBTA bus stop.</p><p></p><p><br>
Please access our webpage here: https://www.publiccounsel.net/dir/malden-dist-pd/</p><div></div><div><b><br>
POSITION OVERVIEW</b></div><div></div><div><br>
The Public Defender Division is seeking to fill an Administrative Assistant position to work with attorneys who provide legal representation and advocacy to indigent adults in criminal misdemeanor and felony cases in area courts.</div><div><br>
</div><div>This is a full-time position and reports to the Supervising Administrative Assistant.
</div>Qualifications:
<p><b>
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS</b></p><p></p><p><br>
Applicants must have at least (A) one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time, experience in administrative work or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below:<br>
Substitutions:</p><ul><li>
An Associate&rsquo;s or higher degree with a major in business administration, business management, or public administration may be substituted for the required experience. Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.</li></ul><div>
Applicants must also have access to home internet access sufficient to work remotely.</div><div></div><p><b><br>
QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS</b></p><p></p><div><br>
The ideal candidate will be a person who is highly organized, creative and detail oriented, enjoys interacting with people in a friendly work environment, and will take satisfaction from working in an agency whose commitment is to protect the fundamental legal rights of indigent persons.</div><ul><li>
Communicating effectively with internal and external contacts at all levels, and across diverse and underrepresented groups;
</li><li>Strong communication, organizational, and detail skills;</li><li>
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to interact effectively with diverse colleagues at all levels of the agency, and the ability to work as an effective team member;</li><li>
Flexibility, and strict adherence to confidentiality;</li><li>
Typing skill of 50 to 60 wpm preferred;</li><li>
Familiarity with advanced Word formatting and editing, and Microsoft Excel;</li><li>
Legal office experience a plus; and,</li><li>
Foreign language skills are strongly preferred.</li></ul>
Responsibilities:
<p><b>
RESPONSIBILITIES</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The Administrative Assistant will support a team of attorneys by:</p><ul><li>
Opening and closing cases, including running conflict checks;</li><li>
Word processing, including preparation of CORI requests, subpoenas, motions, letters, running sheet entries, etc.;</li><li>
Filing, faxing, photocopying, scanning, and shredding documents, transcriptions and transcript requests and other document and record requests as necessary;</li><li>
Providing telephone and reception services;</li><li>
Communicating effectively with internal and external contacts at all levels, and across diverse and underrepresented groups; and,</li><li>
Other duties as assigned.</li></ul><div></div><p><br>
EEO Statement</p><p><br>
</p><p>The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran or military status, genetic information, gender identity, or sexual orientation as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other applicable federal and state statutes and organizational policies. Applicants who have questions about equal employment opportunity or who need reasonable accommodations can contact the interim Chief Human Resources Officer, Sandra DeBow-Huang, at sdebow@publiccounsel.net</p></div>

Administrative Assistant - PDD Malden

<div>Overview:
<div>
The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), the public defender agency for Massachusetts, is seeking to fill an Administrative Assistant position for its Public Defender Division (PDD) Holyoke Office. This is a part-time benefits eligible position that is scheduled to work 19 hours per week (0.54 FTE). PDD provides legal representation to adults in criminal court cases, including District and Superior Court.</div><div></div><div><b><br>
We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
Our Values</b></div><div></div><div><b><br>
C</b><b>ourage &bull; </b><b>A</b><b>ccountability &bull; </b><b>R</b><b>espect &bull;</b><b> E</b><b>xcellence</b></div><div></div><p><br>
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT</p><div></div><p><br>
CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation. We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs. It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.</p><div></div><p><b><br>
AGENCY OVERVIEW</b></p><div></div><p><br>
CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one. The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.</p><div></div><p><br>
The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.</p><p></p><p><b><br>
OFFICE OVERVIEW</b></p><p></p><div><br>
With the largest per capita population of Puerto Ricans in any city outside of Puerto Rico itself, Holyoke is a small but diverse city with a rich cultural history located in the beautiful Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts. This exciting office has a mix of experienced public defenders and new voices shaping the local vision. The staff will provide zealous advocacy in the criminal district courts of Holyoke, Chicopee, and Palmer as well as the Hampden Superior Court.</div><div></div><div><b><br>
POSITION OVERVIEW</b></div><div></div><div><br>
The Public Defender Division is seeking to fill an Administrative Assistant position to work with attorneys who provide legal representation and advocacy to indigent adults in criminal misdemeanor and felony cases in area courts.</div><div><br>
</div><div>This is a part-time benefits eligible position that is scheduled to work 19 hours per week (0.54 FTE) and reports to the Supervising Administrative Assistant.
</div>Qualifications:
<p><b>
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS</b></p><p></p><p><br>
Applicants must have at least (A) one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time, experience in administrative work or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below:<br>
Substitutions:</p><ul><li>
An Associate&rsquo;s or higher degree with a major in business administration, business management, or public administration may be substituted for the required experience. Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.</li></ul><div>
Applicants must also have access to home internet access sufficient to work remotely.</div><div></div><p><b><br>
QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS</b></p><p></p><div><br>
The ideal candidate will be a person who is highly organized, creative and detail oriented, enjoys interacting with people in a friendly work environment, and will take satisfaction from working in an agency whose commitment is to protect the fundamental legal rights of indigent persons.</div><ul><li>
Communicating effectively with internal and external contacts at all levels, and across diverse and underrepresented groups;
</li><li>Strong communication, organizational, and detail skills;</li><li>
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to interact effectively with diverse colleagues at all levels of the agency, and the ability to work as an effective team member;</li><li>
Flexibility, and strict adherence to confidentiality;</li><li>
Typing skill of 50 to 60 wpm preferred;</li><li>
Familiarity with advanced Word formatting and editing, and Microsoft Excel;</li><li>
Legal office experience a plus; and,</li><li>
Foreign language skills are strongly preferred.</li></ul>
Responsibilities:
<p><b>
RESPONSIBILITIES</b></p><p></p><p><br>
The Administrative Assistant will support a team of attorneys by:</p><ul><li>
Opening and closing cases, including running conflict checks;</li><li>
Word processing, including preparation of CORI requests, subpoenas, motions, letters, running sheet entries, etc.;</li><li>
Filing, faxing, photocopying, scanning, and shredding documents, transcriptions and transcript requests and other document and record requests as necessary;</li><li>
Providing telephone and reception services;</li><li>
Communicating effectively with internal and external contacts at all levels, and across diverse and underrepresented groups; and,</li><li>
Other duties as assigned.</li></ul><div></div><p><br>
EEO Statement</p><p><br>
</p><p>The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran or military status, genetic information, gender identity, or sexual orientation as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other applicable federal and state statutes and organizational policies. Applicants who have questions about equal employment opportunity or who need reasonable accommodations can contact the interim Chief Human Resources Officer, Sandra DeBow-Huang, at sdebow@publiccounsel.net</p></div>

Administrative Assistant - PDD Holyoke

Join Committee for Public Counsel Services and explore 7   exciting career opportunities. They're hiring for various roles with options for remote or on-site work. Apply today and become part of their innovative team.