Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel

Are you motivated to correct injustices in Colorado Municipal Courts? The Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel (OADC) is looking for an innovative Municipal Courts Program Manager to join our team. In this role, you'll be at the forefront of shaping novel solutions for individuals charged in municipal courts and supporting the attorneys who defend them. Working closely with the Municipal Court Innovations Coordinator, you'll oversee the operations of two critical programs: one focused on ensuring independent, competent legal representation across the state, and the other providing direct representation in municipalities under contract with the OADC. This position offers a unique opportunity to manage vital administrative duties, solve problems, and contribute to municipal court reform in Colorado. If you are detail-oriented, proactive, and passionate about equity in criminal defense, we want to hear from you!      About Us:    The Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel (OADC) is the legislatively created state agency responsible for providing client services and legal representation for indigent individuals (adults and youth) when the state has charged them with a criminal or delinquent act and the state public defender’s office has a conflict of interest. The OADC accomplishes this by contracting with over 400 private attorneys and another 500 legal service providers (social workers, paralegals, investigators, legal researchers, case assistants, legal interns, etc.) to provide client services on an hourly basis. Our fundamental belief is that good holistic legal defense teams produce superior results for our clients.     Mission Statement:     The mission of the Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel (OADC), through the practice of holistic public defense, is to help adults and children whom the government has charged with criminal and delinquent offenses. The OADC’s holistic practice model fosters ethical, informed, and standard-driven best practices in public defense. The OADC allocates resources in a manner intentionally designed to rebalance the disparate power wielded by the government in the criminal legal system. The OADC advocates for every client’s inherent worth and dignity by centering the client’s lived experiences and voice to achieve the best legal outcome.      The OADC is dedicated to zealous, client-centered advocacy rooted in social justice, integrity, and humility. We recognize that we are working within a broken and racist criminal legal system. Public defense advocates play an essential role in challenging bias and disparity within the courtroom, within our offices, and within ourselves. Statistical data and experiences support that there is a disparate presence of violent policing, over-charging, and harsher sentencing outcomes for Colorado’s people of color and other vulnerable populations. The OADC is unwavering in its support of decarceration, the decriminalization of youth, and equity within the criminal legal system.      About the Job:   OADC’s role in municipal courts came about as a result of municipal court reform efforts. We ensure that eligible clients charged with a municipal ordinance violation that carry any possibility of incarceration are represented and represented by independent and constitutionally competent counsel. The Municipal Court Program Manager will be an essential part of our two-person team working alongside the Municipal Court Innovations Coordinator to breathe life into these reform efforts.       As the Municipal Courts Program Manager, you will manage the day-to-day operations of two key programs: the Municipal Court Program (MCP) and the Municipal Court Appointed Program (MCAP). The MCP program focuses on evaluating municipal courts across the state to ensure their lawyers are independent and competent. MCAP is our program to provide direct representation in specific municipalities under contract with OADC.      The Municipal Courts Program Manager will be responsible for tasks such as:       Administer and implement OADC's municipal court programs, taking ownership of tasks and ensuring timely execution.    Assist in planning and strategizing initiatives aimed at improving municipal court defense statewide.    Organize trainings for municipal court defenders.    Assist with municipal court observations. Oversee the coordination and ensure the successful execution of an extensive number of meetings and court observations. Identify challenges within municipal court programs and propose innovative solutions.     Provide regular updates to municipal court contractors and court-appointed counsel, ensuring clear and consistent communication.    Utilize tech tools like Airtable or other program management tools to enhance workflows and track program performance.    Collect and analyze data related to access to counsel and sentencing outcomes.    Provide administrative support, including managing communications, scheduling, and database updates.    Stay informed on specific municipal court policies and procedures. Stay informed on proposed legislation or changes to municipal ordinances that will impact defense lawyers.    Collaborate with other OADC programs.   This is a dynamic position where duties will evolve, and the position should anticipate fulfilling some other duties as assigned that are reasonable and necessary to fulfill OADC’s mission.       The OADC is a collaborative agency designed for people who thrive in a team environment. The Municipal Court Program Manager reports to the Municipal Court Innovations Coordinator and will periodically engage with other OADC team members.      This position is primarily remote, with occasional on-site requirements at the Denver office as needed.   About You:    The OADC is a collaborative agency where teamwork is essential. We seek candidates with an interest in public defense and municipal court reform efforts. Candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.    There is a preference for individuals who are:  Self-motivated, highly organized, and detail-oriented.  Can multi-task and meet short deadlines.    Have strong analytical skills with experience in program planning and/or statistical analysis. Proficiency in utilizing technology to drive program efficiency (Microsoft Office, Sharepoint/One Drive, Teams, Calendly etc.).   Strong verbal and written communication with a commitment to transparency and honesty.   Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple projects independently.  A passion for addressing systemic injustices in the criminal legal system.  Have at least three years of experience in program management, business management, or office management.     It is also helpful, but not necessary, to possess the following qualifications:     Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.  Experience in court observations or paralegal work.   Expertise in program management technology including, but not limited to Airtable, Adobe Acrobat, Formsite, Loom, and Zapier or other program management technology.     We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.    If you are offered employment, the following are the conditions of employment:  Be a current resident of the State of Colorado or become a resident of the State of Colorado within 30 days of the hire date;  Be willing to submit to a routine background investigation, including a criminal history check;   If hired, the Immigration Reform and Control Act requires you to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the United States within three workdays.    The State of Colorado is committed to providing employees with a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that supports you, your health, and your family Click here for further information about State of Colorado Employee Benefits. In addition to benefits offered by the State of Colorado, there is a gym located in the Ralph Carr Building for use by OADC employees, you will receive an RTD pass, a cell phone stipend each month, and a flexible work schedule. In addition to benefits offered by the State of Colorado, there is a gym located in the Ralph Carr Building for use by OADC employees, you will receive an RTD pass, a cell phone stipend each month, and a flexible work schedule.     How to Apply:    Please complete the online application at the link below by 11:59 pm on October 7, 2024 .     As part of the online application, please provide the following documents:    Resume – Required     Cover letter – Required   Answer several application questions - Required  Letter(s) of Reference – Highly preferred    Please add noreply@fs2.formsite.com as a safe sender. Once you submit your application, you will receive an automatic email from Formsite. If you cannot find this email, please look in your spam/junk folder.    https://fs2.formsite.com/OADC/kfkan8uwmh/index   Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Faxed, mailed, or emailed applications will not be accepted. Please direct any additional inquiries or questions to Municipalprogrammanager@coloradoadc.com.   Annual Salary Range:         $68,919 - $82,315   FLSA Status:                         Exempt  Location:                               Colorado   The Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, religion, social class, national origin, marital or parental status, pregnancy, disability status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or political affiliation. We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and an environment of representation diversity, and encourage individuals of many identities, backgrounds, and experiences to apply.     To request accommodation, please contact Juanise Cornell at peopleadvocate@coloradoadc.com or (720) 994-2840 as soon as possible.  Any person with a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to participate in the hiring process.  The person making the request may be asked to provide additional information regarding functional limitations and the type of accommodation needed, which will be kept confidential.  Advance preparation may be required, so timely requests for accommodation are appreciated.   

Do you identify as a member of the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community? Are you interested in starting your own criminal defense law office, business, or nonprofit after completing the Fellowship? Do you believe that holistic, team-oriented representation is essential for all people accused or convicted of criminal or delinquent acts? If you are passionate about client centered, holistic, team-oriented representation for people accused or convicted of criminal or delinquent acts, we have an amazing opportunity for you! The Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel is offering a unique opportunity for a BIPOC community member or a person with a meaningful connection to BIPOC communities to develop a private law practice in Colorado through the Inclusivity Attorney Fellowship Program.   About Us: The Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel (OADC) is the legislatively created state agency responsible for providing client services and legal representation for indigent individuals (adults and youth) when the state has charged them with a criminal or delinquent act and the Office of the Colorado State Public Defender has a conflict of interest. The OADC accomplishes this by contracting with over 400 private attorneys and another 500 legal service providers (forensic social workers/clinical advocates, paralegals, investigators, legal researchers, case assistants, legal interns, etc.) to provide client services on an hourly basis in both state and municipal court systems. The OADC also provides direct client representation through our Postconviction Unit. Our fundamental belief is that good holistic legal defense teams produce good results for our clients   Mission Statement: The mission of the Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel (OADC), through the practice of holistic public defense, is to help adults and children who the State of Colorado Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel government has charged with criminal and delinquent offenses. The OADC’s holistic practice model fosters ethical, informed, and standard-driven best practices in public defense. The OADC allocates resources in a manner intentionally designed to rebalance the disparate power wielded by the government in the criminal legal system. OADC advocates for every client’s inherent worth and dignity by centering the client’s lived experiences and voice to achieve the best legal outcome. The OADC is dedicated to zealous, client-centered advocacy rooted in social justice, integrity, and humility. We recognize that we are working within a broken and racist criminal legal system. Public defense advocates play an essential role in challenging bias and disparity within the courtroom, within our offices, and within ourselves. Statistical data and experiences support that there is a disparate presence of violent policing, over-charging, and harsher sentencing outcomes for Colorado’s people of color and other vulnerable populations. The OADC is unwavering in its support of decarceration, the decriminalization of youth, and equity within the criminal legal system.   About the Inclusivity Fellowship: The legal field suffers from a lack of diversity nationwide. Colorado's legal community is no different. The pool of attorneys contracting with the OADC is a microcosm of the larger systemic problem. While the lack of diversity is generally problematic for the legal community, it is especially problematic in the criminal legal system where the over-prosecution and resulting mass incarceration of BIPOC individuals is a national tragedy. There is an undeniable benefit when people whose lived experiences as BIPOC community members or people with meaningful connections to BIPOC communities, participate in the system as attorneys and other legal professionals. Rather than continuing to wait for the larger pool of attorneys to become more diverse, the OADC intends to increase the number of contracting attorneys whose lived experiences reflect membership in or who have a meaningful connection with BIPOC communities while also increasing the diversity of the Colorado legal community. This Inclusivity Fellowship Program is the ultimate public-private partnership. This Fellowship will provide a lawyer or recent graduate with a state employee position with a State of Colorado salary and benefits for up to two years while the fellow develops their emerging practice. This employee position will begin as early as October 14, 2024, but could start as late as November 1, 2025. The Fellowship will terminate no later than two years from the date of hire. The Fellowship's exact duration will be tailored to meet the needs of the individual fellow and their future business. During that time, the OADC will provide mentorship from experienced criminal and youth defense practitioners to assist with developing appropriate legal skills, case management, and professional development. In addition, the OADC has a robust training program to further aid in professional and business development. Although the project is geared toward developing an attorney who is proficient in indigent defense, we understand that the fellow may need to develop a well[1]rounded practice that involves representing people in more than just criminal matters. It is anticipated that the fellow will work to build relationships so that at the conclusion of their Fellowship, they can develop other sources of income including private representation, court-appointed work in dependency and neglect cases through other state agencies (e.g., the Office of the Child’s Representative or the Office of Respondent Parent Counsel), and partnerships with civil litigation associations such as Legal Aid (Colorado Legal Services). As such, the OADC has partnered with other entities to provide further mentorship assistance in areas of law other than criminal defense to meet the individual interests of each fellow. The OADC is a collaborative workspace designed for people who thrive in a team environment. This position reports to the Attorney Development Coordinator and will engage with all members of the OADC team.   About You: The ideal candidate is committed to public defense and dreams of starting a thriving private practice. This person must have lived experiences as a BIPOC community member or be a person with meaningful connections to BIPOC communities. Preferred level of Professional Experience: 1 to 5 years’ experience representing human beings as an attorney and/or in a qualified law school clinic or internship/externship setting, and/or under the student practice act(s). Some prior experience in a business setting, preferably self-employed. Our ideal candidate possesses the following skills: You want to create your own private practice and do not want to be a long-term government employee. You are self-motivated and a problem solver. You are an entrepreneur who will support your community with your vision and expertise. You already have a fundamental understanding of criminal defense and public defense systems, criminal law and procedure and rules of evidence. You are collaborative, and passionate about team oriented holistic public defense. You are zealous in your commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and empathy. Bilingual skills a plus. This person must have values closely aligned with the OADC’s Mission Statement and be especially dedicated to: Ending the over-policing, prosecution, and incarceration of vulnerable populations traditionally over-represented in the criminal legal system; and Increasing opportunities for historically under-represented people in America’s legal system. If you are offered this Fellowship, the following are the conditions of employment: Be a current resident of the state of Colorado or become a resident of the state of Colorado within 30 days of the hire date. The fellow may work anywhere in Colorado. Be able to work remotely and in an office setting. Be currently licensed to practice law in the State of Colorado or will be licensed to practice law in the State of Colorado within 90-days of the hire date. For graduating law students, this Fellowship is contingent upon passing the Colorado Bar Exam. Submit to a routine background investigation, including a criminal history check. If hired, the Immigration Reform and Control Act requires you to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the United States within three workdays.   How to Apply: You will be required to complete a written application with additional questions and provide three references in addition to the following documents: Resume – Required Cover letter – Required Legal Writing Sample – Required 2 Letters of Reference – Optional Complete the online application at the link below by 11:59 PM on September 19, 2024. Please add noreply@fs2.formsite.com as a safe sender. Once you submit your application, you will receive an automatic email from Formsite. If you cannot find this email, please look in your spam/junk folder. https://fs2.formsite.com/OADC/kfkan8uwmh/index Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Faxed, mailed, or emailed applications will not be accepted. Please direct any additional inquiries or questions to jobs@coloradoadc.com .   Monthly Salary Range: $5,516-$8,440.34 Annual Salary Range: $84,404.33-$101,284.02 FLSA Status: Exempt Location: Colorado   The State of Colorado is committed to providing employees with a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that supports you, your health, and your family. Click here for further information about State of Colorado Employee Benefits. The Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel is an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, religion, social class, national origin, marital or parental status, pregnancy, disability status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or political affiliation. We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and an environment of representation diversity and we encourage individuals of many identities, backgrounds, and experiences to apply. To request accommodation, please contact Juanise Cornell at juanise@coloradoadc.com or (720) 994-2857 as soon as possible. Any person with a disability, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to participate in the hiring process. The person making the request may be asked to provide additional information regarding functional limitations and the type of accommodation needed, which will be kept confidential. Preparation may be required, so timely requests for accommodation are appreciated.

The Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel (OADC) seeks two investigators, with varying experience levels, for OADC’s new Postconviction Unit (PCU). The PCU Investigators will be crucial members of our interdisciplinary team who gather and prepare evidence in support of clients’ postconviction claims. This is an exciting opportunity to help launch a new unit and advance excellent indigent holistic defense.   About Us: The OADC is the state agency responsible for providing legal representation for indigent adults and youth charged with criminal or delinquent acts, where the Office of the State Public Defender (OSPD) has a conflict of interest. Traditionally, the OADC has accomplished this by contracting with over 400 private attorneys and another 500 legal service providers (forensic social workers/clinical advocates, paralegals, investigators, legal researchers, case assistants, etc.) to provide client services on an hourly basis. The PCU is a new in-house endeavor that will provide direct representation to OADC clients. Our fundamental belief is that good holistic legal defense teams produce good results for our clients.   Mission Statement: The mission of the OADC, through the practice of holistic public defense, is to help adults and children whom the government has charged with criminal and delinquent offenses. The OADC’s holistic practice model fosters ethical, informed, and standard-driven best practices in public defense. The OADC allocates resources in a manner intentionally designed to rebalance the disparate power wielded by the government in the criminal legal system. The OADC advocates for every client’s inherent worth and dignity by centering the client’s lived experiences and voice to achieve the best legal outcome.   The OADC is dedicated to zealous, client-centered advocacy rooted in social justice, integrity, and humility. We recognize that we are working within a broken and racist criminal legal system. Public defense advocates play an essential role in challenging bias and disparity within the courtroom, within our offices, and within ourselves. Statistical data and experiences support that there is a disparate presence of violent policing, over-charging, and harsher sentencing outcomes for Colorado’s people of color and other vulnerable populations. The OADC is unwavering in its support of decarceration, the decriminalization of youth, and equity within the criminal legal system.   Our EDI Vision: accelerate Equity, advance Diversity, amplify Inclusion – together #SeeStriveTransformTogether   The OADC believes that transforming EDI work at this core level takes courage and intention. The work has progressed from the inside out - beginning first with building a team united in its understanding of and deep commitment to EDI and working to actualize this commitment through efforts to shape and refine our culture, spaces, and practices.   About the Job: The PCU will provide direct representation to indigent clients pursuing claims under Crim. P. Rule 35(c) and 35(a), where the OSPD has declared a conflict of interest. The PCU will operate independently within our agency structure. Once it is fully staffed, the PCU will consist of the Director, the PCU Coordinator, four Staff Attorneys, one PCU Paralegal, two Investigators, and one Licensed Social Worker.   The PCU Investigators will work closely with team members to investigate, develop, and strengthen clients’ postconviction claims. Essential job functions will include: Locating and interviewing individuals with relevant information concerning clients’ cases. Reviewing and analyzing discovery materials, witness statements, and physical and/or digital evidence. Collaborating and consulting with defense team members to develop the theory of the case and investigative strategies. Generating detailed, accurate reports or memorandum summarizing witness interviews, evidentiary observations, and performed work. Collecting, documenting, and preserving digital and physical evidence as appropriate. Utilizing critical thinking and attention to detail to develop and pursue investigative leads and sources of information. Identifying opportunities to enhance the client’s case through expert testimony. Communicating and meeting with PCU Staff Attorneys and other team members regarding case status, court dates, witness information, and investigative progress. Tracking time and maintaining clear, timely notes in case management system. Seeking clarification on investigation requests to prioritize and complete assigned tasks within appropriate timelines. Conducting fieldwork to collect client records, serve subpoenas, examine crime scenes, view physical evidence, etc. Maintaining and using technology, tools, and equipment for conducting investigations including, but not limited to, audio recording devices, cameras, analytic software, office equipment, measurement tools, maps, and demonstrative media tools. Providing hearing support, including but not limited to: testifying, assisting as an advisory witness, and coordinating exhibits or witnesses, as needed. Traveling throughout Colorado and elsewhere to pursue leads, gather information, visit clients, and attend court.   About You: Our ideal candidate will be self-motivated, team-oriented, and possess strong organizational and interpersonal skills. There is a preference for individuals who possess the following: A demonstrated commitment to criminal defense, including one or more years of experience performing criminal defense investigations. Ability to work independently and cooperatively as part of an interdisciplinary legal team. Strong attention to detail and analytic skills. Ability to identify legal issues and conduct comprehensive investigations using proper investigative channels and protocols. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to testify in court and effectively interact with a wide range of diverse individuals. Self-directed organization and time-management skills with the ability to meet short deadlines and complete assignments with frequent interruptions. Culturally responsive practices while serving underserved, marginalized populations. Empathy for the needs and histories of people with criminal records. Ability to function under institutional pressure in jails, detention centers, prisons, and courtrooms. Proficiency with technology including Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Acrobat, case management systems, social media platforms, and audio or video recording devices or software. Familiarity with Colorado court rules and procedures, legal terminology, rules of professional conduct, and principles of attorney-client privilege. A valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and access to a working vehicle. Certification with the ACFE, NALI, CDITC or other reputable investigative association. A Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, Forensic Science, Investigations, or a related field.   The OADC will consider candidates who possess a combination of demonstrable skills, experience, and other qualifications in lieu of a bachelor's degree. Candidates who do not possess a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or related areas should be prepared to provide evidence of their relevant skills, experience, and other qualifications as part of the application process. We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and encourage individuals of many identities, backgrounds, and experiences to apply. OADC values lived experiences. A criminal history will not necessarily disqualify a candidate’s opportunity, but the OADC will run a background check on any finalist.   If you are offered employment, the following are the conditions of employment: Be a current resident of the State of Colorado or become a resident of the State of Colorado within 30 days of the hire date; Be willing to submit to a routine background investigation, including a criminal history check; and If hired, the Immigration Reform and Control Act requires you to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the United States within three workdays.   How to Apply: In the online application, you must provide a resume, a cover letter and answer several questions. You may also upload two letters of recommendation. Please complete the online application at the link below by 11:59 pm on Monday, March 4, 2024.   https://fs2.formsite.com/OADC/nd3fixmbri/index   Once you submit your application, you will receive an automatic email from Formsite. Please add noreply@fs2.formsite.com as a safe sender. If you cannot find this email, please look in your spam/junk folder. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Faxed, mailed, or emailed applications will not be accepted. Please direct any additional inquiries or questions to pcuinvestigatorjob@coloradoadc.com .   The State of Colorado is committed to providing employees with a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that supports you, your health, and your family. Click here for further information about State of Colorado Employee Benefits. In addition to benefits offered by the State of Colorado, there is a gym located in the Ralph Carr Building for use by OADC employees, you will receive an RTD pass, a cell phone stipend each month, and a flexible work schedule.   Salary Range: $64,548- $83,796 FLSA Status: Exempt Location: Colorado   The Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, religion, social class, national origin, marital or parental status, pregnancy, disability status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or political affiliation. We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and an environment of representative diversity, and encourage individuals of many identities, backgrounds, and experiences to apply.   To request accommodation, please contact Juanise Cornell at peopleadvocate@coloradoadc.com or (720) 994-2840 as soon as possible. Any person with a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to participate in the hiring process. The person making the request may be asked to provide additional information regarding functional limitations and the type of accommodation needed, which will be kept confidential. Advance preparation may be required, so timely requests for accommodation are appreciated.