CONTRACTED ATTORNEY OPPORTUNITY: PRIVATE ATTORNEY CONTRACT POSITIONS WITH CPCS

Unlock your potential with CPCS through this contracted attorney opportunity—ideal for full-time or part-time attorneys looking to make a meaningful impact as a public defense attorney in Massachusetts.

ABOUT US 

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is Massachusetts’ public defender agency, providing access to justice for people who cannot afford an attorney. We support the public defense attorney community statewide—ensuring representation in criminal defense, youth advocacy, mental health law, family regulation, parole, sex offender registry matters, and related appeals.

Our mission is to fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We promote client-centered advocacy, protect individual rights, and drive policy reform.

To achieve this, CPCS contracts with qualified attorneys through our Private Attorney Panels. This contracted attorney opportunity is ideal for those seeking flexible, independent roles in public interest law—whether full-time or part-time—and not for employee staff positions.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR 

We welcome applications from attorneys licensed in Massachusetts who are committed to social justice, due process, and protecting the rights of people involved in government systems. This is a great fit for part-time attorneys, solo practitioners, or any lawyer looking to expand their practice through contracted public defense work.

Each panel requires specific training and certification, and CPCS offers robust support through experienced mentors and high-quality litigation training.

WHY JOIN US? 

Be your own boss while standing up for justice. As a CPCS Private Panel Attorney, you’ll have the freedom to manage your caseload, choose your preferred courts and practice areas, and receive the ongoing training and support of a statewide network. This opportunity is perfect for attorneys seeking part-time, contracted, and mission-driven legal work in public defense.

PRACTICE AREAS

▸ Private Counsel Division (PCD) – Adult Criminal Defense

Handle adult criminal cases in District and Superior Court, including appeals, parole, and civil commitment matters.

▸ Children and Family Law Division (CAFL) – Family Defense

Represent children and parents in C&P, CRA, and guardianship cases. Trial and Appellate Panels available.

▸ Youth Advocacy Division (YAD) – Juvenile Defense

Defend youth using a trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate model. Opportunities in trial and juvenile appeals.

▸ Mental Health Litigation Division (MHLD) – Mental Health & Guardianship

Protect individuals in civil commitment, involuntary treatment, and guardianship proceedings. Openings for both trial-level and appellate mental health attorneys.

-Licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and in good standing

-Must meet division-specific certification and training requirements (details provided upon inquiry)

Ideal for attorneys seeking flexible part-time or full-time contracted work in public defense

Whether you're an experienced litigator or a part-time attorney exploring new ways to serve, this contracted attorney opportunity with CPCS offers purpose, flexibility, and impact.

Learn more and apply at: www.publiccounsel.net/ppa