Appellate Defense Counsel

About This Role

This role is responsible for all phases of direct appeals in capital and/or non-capital cases before the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals, including case management, legal research, and client communication. The position involves reviewing court records to identify legal errors and developing factual arguments.

Responsibilities

• Perform case management activities for direct appeals in the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals
• Maintain complete and accurate files of all pleadings and orders
• Perform initial and ongoing legal research
• Review court records to identify legal error and develop legal and factual arguments
• Review jury instructions and make recommendations for change
• Make note of important testimony/evidence admitted during trial to establish fact pattern and identify potential errors
• Open or supervise the opening of new client files
• Communicate with clients concerning case status and reasonable requests for information
• Direct or assist in appeal briefs and pleadings
• Investigate matters outside the trial record when required
• Prepare or assist in the presentations of oral arguments as necessary
• Prepare for or assist in the preparation to appear on the client’s behalf in district court as necessary
• Supervise, consult on, or prepare petitions for writs of certiorari to the United States Supreme Court in capital cases
• Serve as Co-counsel and provide ongoing advice, assistance, and support to other attorneys
• Participate in peer review of all attorney work product

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate degree
• Active membership and good standing with the State Bar of Oklahoma, or eligibility for admission
• Knowledge of Oklahoma state court system
• Knowledge of conducting legal research
• Knowledge of civil and criminal law and procedure
• Ability to prepare or assist in the preparation of legal documents for assigned cases
• Ability to abide by the Oklahoma Rules of Professional Conduct

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate degree
• 3+ years of relevant criminal litigation experience

Benefits