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National Legal Aid & Defender Association

Trial Services Deputy Director - Trial Office Management and Support

National Legal Aid & Defender Association, Columbus, Ohio, United States, 43224

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Trial Services Deputy Director - Trial Office Management and Support

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National Legal Aid & Defender Association

The OPD is seeking a passionate, organized, and strategic indigent defense leader to join its executive leadership team as a Trial Services Deputy Director responsible for effective office and personnel operations. You will lead the directors of four county offices across Ohio (Ross, Trumbull, Athens and Washington counties) to ensure sustainability, quality work environments, employee experience, and client service provision. You will set a clear and strategic vision, implement retention and professional development programs, coordinate strategic trial litigation, advise leaders on legal, operational, and administrative matters, and build a client‑centered culture.

You will also serve in an advisory capacity to the Assistant Director of Trial Services, Assistant Director of Columbus Office, the State Public Defender, and may carry a small caseload.

Essential Functions These responsibilities are essential to the position:

Manage Operations Conduct regular one‑on‑one and team meetings to provide support, discuss challenges, and monitor performance. Provide feedback, recognition, and support. Identify areas for improvement and help develop training opportunities. Cultivate a positive, collaborative environment where open communication is encouraged. Allocate resources based on project requirements, client needs, and external demands. Develop innovative solutions for current service delivery and staffing issues. Work closely with Human Resources to stay current with best practices and policies. Travel regular to county offices for in‑person support and training.

Recruitment, Retention, and Development Lead pipeline initiatives to connect with candidates, host externs and interns, and engage at law schools. Implement comprehensive onboarding and new staffing programs. Evaluate and improve procedures and policies. Coach and develop attorneys and non‑attorney staff using innovative methods.

Advisory Capacity Assist in formulation of policies, procedures, administrative rules, budget implementation, and evaluation of proposed legislation affecting agency operations.

Supervision Directly supervise attorneys, approve work schedules, resolve questions and concerns, disseminate policies, provide coaching, complete performance reviews, and plan succession. Oversee budgets and financial resources, approving training, travel, and equipment requests.

Special Projects and Other Duties Provide legal advice to county public defenders and private bar on criminal law matters. Represent indigent defendants across Ohio, handling a reduced caseload and formulating innovative legal strategies. This role requires in‑office presence and extensive travel in Ohio, with the Columbus office as base.

To apply, please upload a Resume and a Cover Letter indicating how you are best qualified for this position and why you feel you are the best fit for the Ohio Public Defender’s Office.

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