MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties.
Join our dynamic team and a part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense which includes not just excellence in client representation but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit:www.mpdlaw.com
MPD is currently searching for a Legal Assistant II to join our Multnomah County Office. The Legal Assistant position is an integral part of the defense team, providing administrative support to attorneys and maintaining regular contact with clients and their families. They are responsible for processing and organizing case material (including evidence, reports, and other records) and serve as liaison between maintaining accurate records and serve as a liaison between clients, attorneys, client families, and elements of the criminal justice system. As appropriate, they may assess client needs and support the coordination of necessary services with other members of the holistic defense team. Ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, clear oral and written communication skills, the ability to multi-task, and a commitment to indigent defense excellence. The Legal Assistant II receives general supervision from the Chief Legal Assistant.
This position pays $21.92/hr - $33.64/hr. Staff are members of a union. This is a full-time, in-office, non-exempt position.
In addition to compensation, MPD also offers:
Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental and VisionFlexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of service PTO – 24 hours upon hire and accrues monthly to 80 hours, increasing to 120 hours starting at 24 months 10 paid holidays + 2 Personal Equity Days4 Mental Health Days per year Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire + accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employmentPosition Qualifications
High school diploma or GED Education or experience working in the legal or social service field. Strong verbal and written communication skillsExcellent organizational and time management skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to meet deadlinesAbility to travel to and work within criminal justice system facilitiesPosition Preferences
Ability to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system. Ability to testify in court without impeachment (may preclude employees and applicants convicted of certain crimes within the prior 15 years). Ability to maintain confidentiality of agency records. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Fluent in Spanish highly preferred.Work Environment:
MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful. Work is generally sedentary, in an office setting, courthouse, or jail facility. There are frequent requirements for some physical activity such as carrying boxes of records weighing up to 10 pounds, stooping to extract records from files, or carrying and setting up display easels in court.Work Environment:
Submit a current resume and cover letter on why you are interested in the position and/or in supporting public defense work at MPDInternal applicants should apply via the Career Center on ADPPosting will close on or before August 21, 2026Diversity and Inclusion: At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for all our staff.
MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.
Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.
MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties.
Join our dynamic team and a part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense which includes not just excellence in client representation but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit:www.mpdlaw.com
MPD is currently searching for a Chief Attorney to join our Multnomah County Office. The Chief Attorney is a management position that represents MPD in policy and operation discussions with criminal legal system stakeholders regarding issues and processes related to their supervised unit. This position manages a team of 8-12 attorneys with caseloads. The Chief Attorney mentors and trains all team members on a continuing basis, including staffing cases, trial observations, regular check-ins, and other related supervision. In addition to the management and policy responsibilities, the Chief Attorney will also handle a misdemeanor or felony caseload of 0.25-0.75, depending on team. This position receives general supervision from the Multnomah County Director.
This position pays $130,153.66 - $174,175.04 per year. Staff is an at-will employee. This is a full-time, in-office exempt position.
In addition to compensation, MPD also offers:
Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental (choice of PPO Base or PPO Enhanced) and VisionFlexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of servicePTO – 24 hours upon hire, accrues monthly up to 80 hours and increasing up to 120 hours starting at 24 months10 paid holidays + 2 Personal Equity Days4 Mental Health Days per year Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire + accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employmentPosition Qualifications
Must be a current member of the Oregon State Bar in good standing or eligible for reciprocity admission.Experience working in indigent criminal defense.OPDC qualified to handle misdemeanor and felony casesAbility to travel to and work within criminal justice system facilities and to testify in court without impeachmentPosition Preferences
Excellent organizational and time management skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to meet deadlinesAbility to maintain confidentialityStrong verbal and written communication skillsAbility to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system.Experience with training, coaching and/or supervisionAbility to work independently and as part of a teamWork Environment:
MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful. Work is generally sedentary and in an office setting, courthouse, or jail facility. Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.This is an in-person/in-office position.Application Process:
Submit a resume and cover letter on why you are interested in this position and/or in support of public defense.Diversity and Inclusion: At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for all our staff.
MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.
Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.
Read LessMPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties.
Join our dynamic team and a part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense which includes not just excellence in client representation but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit:www.mpdlaw.com
MPD is currently searching for a Trainer Manager to join our Multnomah County Office. The Trainer Manager plans and coordinates a robust training program utilizing and developing resources within the office, primarily for attorneys but also for legal professional support staff. This position mentors and trains all team members, including Certified Law Students, on a continuing basis. This position works in close conjunction with other management Chiefs to meet the training needs of all MPD staff. The Trainer Manager receives general supervision from the Director of Training & Attorney Recruitment.
This position pays $130,153.66 - $174,175.04 per year. Staff is an at-will employee. This is a full-time, in-office exempt position.
In addition to compensation, MPD also offers:
Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental (choice of PPO Standard or PPO Enhanced) and VisionFlexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of servicePTO – up to 80 hours and increases up to 120 hours starting at 24 months10 paid holidays + 2 Personal Equity Days4 Mental Health Days per year Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire + accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employmentPosition Qualifications
Must be a current member of the Oregon State Bar in good standing or eligible for reciprocity admission.Experience working in indigent criminal/juvenile defense.OPDC-qualified to handle misdemeanor and felony casesAbility to travel to and work within criminal justice system facilities and to testify in court without impeachmentPosition Preferences
Excellent organizational and time management skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to meet deadlinesAbility to maintain confidentialityStrong verbal and written communication skillsAbility to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system.Experience with training, coaching and/or supervisionAbility to work independently and as part of a team.Work Environment:
MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful. Work is generally sedentary and in an office setting, courthouse, or jail facility Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.This is an in-person/in-office position.Application Process:
Submit a resume and cover letter on why you are interested in this position and/or in support of public defense.Diversity and Inclusion: At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for all our staff.
MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.
Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.
MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties.
Join our dynamic team and become part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense, which includes not just excellence in client representation, but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit: www.mpdlaw.com
MPD is currently searching for a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Investigator to join our Washington County Office. An Investigator enthusiastically seeks out and cultivates leads or further areas of inquiry from available information. They conduct field investigations, obtain testimony of those people who have direct, peripheral, or hearsay information, gather and examine evidence, and collect and review official, unofficial, or quasi-official records. Investigators also meet with both in and out-of-custody clients. They review discovery to create timelines, witness lists, and prioritized task lists. The role may involve creating evidence in the form of photographs, drawings, recordings, reproductions of documents and/or recordings, models, or preserving physical objects for later use. The ideal candidate will have prior experience as an investigator or experience in a related field, preferably in an area that involves criminal defense, and must have a valid Driver’s License and a vehicle. The Investigator receives general supervision from the Chief Investigator.
This position pays $27.05/hr - $40.67/hr. Staff are members of a union. This is an in-office, full-time, non-exempt position. In addition to compensation, MPD also offers:
Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental and VisionFlexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) Basic Life, STD, LTD and ADD&D – 100% employer paid 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of service PTO – 24 hours upon hire and accrue monthly to 80 hours and increase to 120 hours starting at 24 months 10 paid holidays + 2 personal equity days4 Mental Health Days per year Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire and accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employmentPosition Qualifications
High school diploma or GEDBilingual in English and SpanishEducation or experience working in the legal or social service field Ability to pass background check to access clients and witnesses in correctional facilities (may preclude employees and applicants arrested and jailed) and to testify in court without impeachment (may preclude employees and applicants convicted of certain crimes within the prior 15 years) Must have a valid driver’s license and a vehicle Strong verbal and written communication skills Ability to maintain confidentialityPosition Preferences
Ability to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system Experience working with low-income clients, and diverse cultural, geographic, and economic backgrounds, including individuals with a history of incarceration or traumaAbility to work well independently and as part of a teamWork Environment:
MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful. Work is generally sedentary, in an office setting, courthouse, field location or jail facility. There are frequent requirements for some physical activity such as carrying boxes of records weighing up to 10 pounds, stooping to extract records from files, or carrying and setting up display easels in court.To Apply:
Submit a current resume and cover letter on why you are interested in the position and/or in supporting public defense workInternal applicants should apply via the Career Center in ADPPosting will close on or before August 11th, 2026Diversity and Inclusion: At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for all our staff.
MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.
Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.
Read LessMPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties.
Join our dynamic team and a part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense which includes not just excellence in client representation but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit:www.mpdlaw.com
MPD is currently searching for Attorneys I-IV to join our Multnomah County and Washington County Offices. The Attorney position provides court appointed criminal defense services in both Multnomah and Washington counties, Oregon. Attorneys who are assigned to a trial unit will review charging instruments and police reports and other discovery provided by the State. The Attorneys will meet with clients and learn the client’s goals for the representation and any special needs of the client. Attorneys then determine what further investigation to undertake and direct that investigation. Attorneys determine what legal issues need development, researches those issues, and presents them in the appropriate forum. The Attorney will negotiate with the State and promptly advise the client of the status of the negotiations. The Attorney will litigate any legal issues that are necessary and appropriate, including bringing cases to trial. The attorney will also conduct any post-trial litigation necessary such as sentencing and post-trial motions (excluding appeals.)
Attorneys assigned to other units (specialty courts, juveniles) will also review documents provided by government agencies, discuss them with clients, and develop a strategy for representation in consultation with the client, and then carry out the representation in accordance with that strategy.
Attorneys will conduct their law practice according to all applicable statutes, practice standards, and the Oregon Rules of Professional Conduct. Attorneys receive general supervision from the unit Attorney Chief.
This position pays $92,052.48 - $155,304.24 per year. Staff is a member of Union AFSCME Public Defenders Local 3668 after the completion of 6 months evaluation period. This is a full-time exempt position. In addition to compensation, MPD also offers:
Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental (choice of PPO Standard or PPO Enhanced) and VisionFlexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid 401(K) – MPD contributes 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of service PTO – 24 hours upon hire and accrue monthly to 80 hours and increase to 120 hours starting at 24 months 10 paid holidays + 2 personal equity days4 Mental Health Days per year Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire and accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employmentPosition Qualifications
Must be a current member of the Oregon State Bar in good standing. Experience working in indigent criminal defense. Areas of proficiency should include evidence, criminal law, criminal procedure, court procedure, ethics, and collateral consequences.Position Preferences
Ability to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system. Ability to pass background check to access clients and witnesses in correctional facilities (may preclude employees and applicants arrested and jailed) and to testify in court without impeachment (may preclude employees and applicants convicted of certain crimes within the prior 15 years). Maintains confidentiality of agency records. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.Work Environment:
MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful. Work is generally sedentary, in an office setting, courthouse, field location or jail facility. There are frequent requirements for some physical activity such as carrying boxes of records weighing up to 10 pounds, stooping to extract records from files, or carrying and setting up display easels in court.Special Considerations:
Staff attorneys may participate only in MPD assigned legal work for compensation during the term of their employment, except for cases obtained prior to employment with the office. Permission from the Executive Director is required to continue representation on prior non-MPD cases and/or to be involved in active representation on a pro bono basis.
To Apply:
Submit a current resume and cover letter on why you are interested in the position and/or in supporting public defense work.Open until filled.
Diversity and Inclusion: At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for all our staff.
MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.
Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.
Read LessMPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties.
Join our dynamic team and a part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense which includes not just excellence in client representation but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit:www.mpdlaw.com
MPD is currently searching for Attorneys I-IV to join our Multnomah County and Washington County Offices. The Attorney position provides court appointed criminal defense services in both Multnomah and Washington counties, Oregon. Attorneys who are assigned to a trial unit will review charging instruments and police reports and other discovery provided by the State. The Attorneys will meet with clients and learn the client’s goals for the representation and any special needs of the client. Attorneys then determine what further investigation to undertake and direct that investigation. Attorneys determine what legal issues need development, researches those issues, and presents them in the appropriate forum. The Attorney will negotiate with the State and promptly advise the client of the status of the negotiations. The Attorney will litigate any legal issues that are necessary and appropriate, including bringing cases to trial. The attorney will also conduct any post-trial litigation necessary such as sentencing and post-trial motions (excluding appeals.)
Attorneys assigned to other units (specialty courts, juveniles) will also review documents provided by government agencies, discuss them with clients, and develop a strategy for representation in consultation with the client, and then carry out the representation in accordance with that strategy.
Attorneys will conduct their law practice according to all applicable statutes, practice standards, and the Oregon Rules of Professional Conduct. Attorneys receive general supervision from the unit Attorney Chief.
This position pays $92,052.48 - $155,304.24 per year. Staff is a member of Union AFSCME Public Defenders Local 3668 after the completion of 6 months evaluation period. This is a full-time exempt position. In addition to compensation, MPD also offers:
Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental (choice of PPO Standard or PPO Enhanced) and VisionFlexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid 401(K) – MPD contributes 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of service PTO – 24 hours upon hire and accrue monthly to 80 hours and increase to 120 hours starting at 24 months 10 paid holidays + 2 personal equity days4 Mental Health Days per year Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire and accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employmentPosition Qualifications
Must be a current member of the Oregon State Bar in good standing. Experience working in indigent criminal defense. Areas of proficiency should include evidence, criminal law, criminal procedure, court procedure, ethics, and collateral consequences.Position Preferences
Ability to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system. Ability to pass background check to access clients and witnesses in correctional facilities (may preclude employees and applicants arrested and jailed) and to testify in court without impeachment (may preclude employees and applicants convicted of certain crimes within the prior 15 years). Maintains confidentiality of agency records. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.Work Environment:
MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful. Work is generally sedentary, in an office setting, courthouse, field location or jail facility. There are frequent requirements for some physical activity such as carrying boxes of records weighing up to 10 pounds, stooping to extract records from files, or carrying and setting up display easels in court.Special Considerations:
Staff attorneys may participate only in MPD assigned legal work for compensation during the term of their employment, except for cases obtained prior to employment with the office. Permission from the Executive Director is required to continue representation on prior non-MPD cases and/or to be involved in active representation on a pro bono basis.
To Apply:
Submit a current resume and cover letter on why you are interested in the position and/or in supporting public defense work.Open until filled.
Diversity and Inclusion: At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for all our staff.
MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.
Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.
Read Less