The Children and Family Law Division (CAFL) Appeals Unit of CPCS is seeking applicants for Fall 2024 internship positions.      We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.     Our Values     Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •  Excellence    DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT     CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility each member of the CPCS community.     AGENCY OVERVIEW     CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.    The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.     POSITION OVERVIEW      CAFL’s Appellate Unit provides zealous advocacy for children and parents seeking relief from interlocutory and final orders in state intervention child custody proceedings. The unit also develops and assists in the implementation of novel approaches to persistent and emerging systemic issues. 

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) Springfield Trial Court Office is currently seeking students for our Fall 2024 internship positions.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters. The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   POSITION OVERVIEW   We offer law student interns a variety of experiences and assignments, supervised by veteran attorneys, as well as valuable training. Interns will work closely with lawyers, social workers, and investigators by providing legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients who are charged with criminal offenses in both the District and Superior Courts. This unit will provide interns with a wide range of opportunities, including, but not limited to, legal research and writing, arraignment and bail advocacy, second seating trials, pretrial investigations including visiting crime scenes, locating and interviewing witnesses.

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) Worcester PDD Trial Office is currently seeking students for our Fall 2024 internship positions.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters. The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   POSITION OVERVIEW   We offer law student interns a variety of experiences and assignments, supervised by veteran attorneys, as well as valuable training. Interns will work closely with lawyers, social workers, and investigators by providing legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients who are charged with criminal offenses in both the District and Superior Courts. This unit will provide interns with a wide range of opportunities, including, but not limited to, legal research and writing, arraignment and bail advocacy, second seating trials, pretrial investigations including visiting crime scenes, locating and interviewing witnesses.

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) Lawrence PDD office is currently seeking students for our Fall 2024 internship positions.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters. The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   POSITION OVERVIEW   We offer law student interns a variety of experiences and assignments, supervised by veteran attorneys, as well as valuable training. Interns will work closely with lawyers, social workers, and investigators by providing legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients who are charged with criminal offenses in both the District and Superior Courts. This unit will provide interns with a wide range of opportunities, including, but not limited to, legal research and writing, arraignment and bail advocacy, second seating trials, pretrial investigations including visiting crime scenes, locating and interviewing witnesses.

The CPCS Public Defender Division, Norfolk County Office (located in Quincy MA and accessible by the T-Red Line) is currently seeking students for our Fall 2024 (August 19, 2024 thru Mid-December) internship positions.    We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   POSITION OVERVIEW   In the PDD Norfolk County office, we defend a broad range of adult felony and misdemeanor cases, including all offenses except for Murder, in both District Court and Superior Court.  We also advocate for clients in various capacities in mental health court, veteran’s court, and drug court programs.   We offer law student interns (rising 2L through 3L) a variety of experiences and assignments, supervised by veteran attorneys, as well as extensive valuable training, which is currently unique to our location. Interns will work closely with lawyers, social workers, and investigators to provide legal representation and advocacy. The PDD Norfolk County office gives interns a wide range of opportunities, including, but not limited to, legal research and writing (including motions to dismiss, to suppress, and more), arraignment and bail advocacy (for our 3:03 certified interns), possible second seating trials, and more. Interns will leave with multiple projects to utilize as writing samples and with a written review to use for a reference.   NOTE:At the beginning of the internship, there is mandatory attendance at an intensive, multi-day training.   UNPAID INTERNSHIPS   School-year internships at CPCS are unpaid.  We strongly encourage students to pursue all funding sources available to students performing internships at public service agencies, including through their school or a federal work-study fellowship.

The Special Projects Unit is currently seeking law students for Fall 2024 internship positions. Interns must be enrolled in law school. To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter and writing sample no later than April 30, 2024. In their cover letters, candidates are encouraged to share any of the lived or professional experiences that draw you towards public defense. We are considering applications on a rolling basis, so we strongly encourage applicants to submit their completed applications as soon as practically possible. If you have any questions, please reach out to Tricia Muse at pmuse@publiccounsel.net     We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values    Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •  Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one. The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, child welfare, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.     POSITION OVERVIEW   The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is Massachusetts’ state-wide public defender organization. The Special Projects Unit (SPU) is part of the Private Counsel Division Criminal Appeals Unit. This unit assigns cases to criminal post-conviction clients when there have been developments in the law that have a widespread impact on CPCS post-conviction clients and may provide grounds for undoing a conviction, notifies clients and attorneys about these developments and, in some cases, litigates these issues. For more information, please see our webpage at https://www.publiccounsel.net/pc/criminal-post-conviction-and-appeals-unit/   Interns assist the SPU on post-conviction case investigation by reviewing case files and court dockets. They research state and federal constitutional issues relating to current post-conviction litigation. During the Fall 2024 semester interns will also assist in the preparation for an evidentiary hearing by searching and organizing discovery and strategizing about its use at an anticipated hearing. Interns also participate in the preparation of arguments to be presented to the appellate courts (moot) and attend court hearings. They may also field questions from attorneys and others regarding Special Project litigation. Students are also encouraged to attend court as often as they would like to observe motions and appellate arguments as well as hearings in the trial court.   Our office is committed to helping to prepare students to be excellent public defenders. All students begin their internship by participating in a training focused on the Massachusetts criminal court system and appellate practice.   Our office is easily accessible via public transportation, so students are not required to have access to a car. 

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), the Massachusetts state public defender agency, is seeking a Project Coordinator to assist the Facilities Department with on-going and special projects including, but not limited, to technology improvements, job aid creation, inventory control, and office moves. This position will sit in our Bridgewater Office. The selected candidate will be eligible for a hybrid work schedule.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW    CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.    DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW    The Facilities Department aids in the delivery of the Agency’s mission to serve our clients through creating a physical work environment that is welcoming and safe for staff and clients alike.  The Facilities Department accomplishes this through the procurement, design, construction and outfitting of Agency office locations in the many communities we serve.  CPCS Facilities prides itself on being a solid foundation on which the Agency stands while it advocates for those of us who are unable to do so for themselves.   POSITION OVERVIEW    The Project Coordinator is a new position within the Facilities Department designed to assist with on-going projects as well as special projects.  The primary duties of the role include working with vendors on procurement, overseeing the progress and implementation of agency facilities related goals, and assisting the Facilities Team with projects.  The position will work closely with members of the IT department to assist with project implementation as well.   The Project Coordinator will report directly to the Director of Facilities.  

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), the public defender agency for Massachusetts, is seeking to fill an Administrative Assistant I position for its Public Defender Division (PDD) Malden Office.  PDD provides legal representation to adults in criminal court cases, including District and Superior Court.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   OFFICE OVERVIEW   The Public Defender Division Malden Office is located in Middlesex County and is approximately four miles away from downtown Boston. The office is centrally located in the heart of the Malden civic center and has excellent highway accessibility (Route 93, Route 28, and Route 60) while also being in close proximity to the Malden Square MBTA train station and a MBTA bus stop.   Please access our webpage here:  https://www.publiccounsel.net/dir/malden-dist-pd/   POSITION OVERVIEW   The Public Defender Division is seeking to fill an Administrative Assistant I position to work with attorneys who provide legal representation and advocacy to indigent adults in criminal misdemeanor and felony cases in area courts.  The Administrative Assistant I supports the office by opening and closing cases, filing, faxing, photocopying, and scanning documents, organizing case discovery/documents, and providing telephone coverage for the office.   This is a full-time (35 hours/week) position and reports to the Supervising Administrative Assistant III.

The Committee for Public Counsel Services, the Massachusetts public defender agency, is seeking a Social Services Advocate for the Mental Health Litigation Division Brockton Trial Office. Social Services Advocates work with staff Trial Attorneys to defend against civil commitment and involuntary treatment, as well as related cases involving MHLD clients, in accordance with expressed client wishes and preferences.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   DIVISION OVERVIEW   The Mental Health Litigation Division (MHLD) provides leadership, training, support, and oversight for four staffed trial offices, trial and support unit, training unit, an appellate unit, and a panel of private trial and appellate attorneys.  The Division is committed to protecting the legal and constitutional rights of persons facing civil commitment to public and private psychiatric facilities, the involuntary administration of extraordinary medical treatment, including anti-psychotic medications, and the appointment of a guardian.  We are dedicated to zealous advocacy and a client centered model.   OFFICE OVERVIEW   Brockton is the seventh largest city in Massachusetts and is sometimes referred to as the "City of Champions," due to the success of native boxers Rocky Marciano and Marvin Hagler as well as its successful Brockton High School sports programs.  Brockton also hosts its own amateur baseball team, the Brockton Rox.  The Brockton Office is located in downtown Brockton adjacent to the Plymouth County Judicial Complex.  Brockton is a diverse community which includes a large Cape Verdean population.   POSITION OVERVIEW   MHLD is seeking to fill a full-time Social Services Advocate (SSA) position for the Brockton Commitment Unit, serving Bridgewater State Hospital and several other facilities in the area. Bridgewater State Hospital is a civil commitment institution that incarcerates people who are involved in the criminal legal system. All clients at Bridgewater State Hospital also have previous criminal charges with a range of severity. The SSA uses the Brockton office as their primary office location but is responsible for cases in any of the hospitals and courts assigned to that office.   Under the supervision of the Director of Social Services Advocacy, the SSA works with staff Trial Attorneys to defend against civil commitment and involuntary treatment, as well as related cases involving MHLD clients, in accordance with expressed client wishes and preferences. The SSA is an integral member of the legal team and works with the client in the context of attorney-client confidentiality and privilege. The SSA plays a critical role in identifying the social, medical, psychological, and rehabilitative issues that preceded the client’s court involvement. The SSA promotes community integration under the least restrictive setting principle, by providing recovery-oriented, holistic assessment, care coordination, and advocacy for clients within court, educational, rehabilitative, mental health and social service systems. The SSA will be expected to utilize a client-directed, strengths-based, non-judgmental approach to direct client work.   Due to the nature of the work, there is often a requirement to meet with clients on short notice; therefore, there is an expectation that the SSA is flexible with their schedule. 

The Public Defender Division of Committee for Public Counsel Services, the Massachusetts public defender agency, is seeking an Investigator for the Roxbury Defenders Unit.  Investigators conduct criminal defense investigations and aid in trial preparation for CPCS Trial Attorneys in Municipal  and Superior Court cases in Suffolk County.  Investigators are key members of the defense team who assist in developing defense strategies for indigent persons charged with criminal offenses by interviewing witnesses, documenting crime scenes, and later testifying in court.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   OFFICE OVERVIEW   The Roxbury Defenders’ Office, formerly known as the Roxbury Defenders’ Committee, was founded in 1971 by a group of African American attorneys (including Roderick Ireland who later became Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court).  Its mission was to provide legal services to Roxbury residents who were not adequately represented. The Office has been staffed over the years by many attorneys who have achieved prominence as trial lawyers, judges, elected officials, and community leaders. The office is located at 10 Malcom X Boulevard in the heart of Roxbury. The Office continues to provide excellent and zealous representation to the greater Roxbury Community, representing clients in the Suffolk Superior Court, and Roxbury, Dorchester, and West Roxbury Divisions of the Boston Municipal Court. From its inception the Office has been integrally involved in the local community; members of the Office participate in various local activities and organizations to improve the welfare of its clients and the people in the area.  The Office continues to strongly believe in community engagement and partnership to assist clients as they navigate the criminal legal system.    POSITION OVERVIEW   Public Defender Investigators are key members of the defense team and are responsible for conducting criminal defense investigations and trial preparation for CPCS Trial Attorneys as well as assisting in developing defense strategy for indigent persons charged with criminal offenses in the Municipal and Superior courts in Suffolk County.  Key responsibilities of Investigators are locating and interviewing persons, obtaining facts, inspecting records, writing reports, documenting crime scenes, searching databases and social media, summonsing witnesses to court, shepherding witnesses through the trial court process, and testifying in court.    Investigators work under the direction of the Attorney-in-Charge, the Director of Investigations, and the Supervising Investigator and work collaboratively with other staff investigators, Attorneys-in-Charge, and CPCS Administration.

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), the Massachusetts public defender agency, is seeking a dynamic experienced leader to serve as Deputy Chief Counsel of the Children and Family Law Division.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   DIVISION OVERVIEW   The Children and Family Law Division (CAFL) of CPCS provides children, young adults, and indigent parents zealous legal representation in a range of civil matters involving families. These include child neglect and abuse cases (referred to in Massachusetts as care and protection or C&P cases); termination of parental rights cases; status offense (child requiring assistance) matters, guardianship-of-a-minor cases, and proceedings for certain minors to obtain judicial consent for an abortion. We provide this representation through a diverse community of public defenders. Our multidisciplinary legal teams defend families against unwarranted governmental interference and protect the constitutional and statutory rights of children, young adults, and parents. CAFL provides leadership, training, and support to staff members and private attorneys throughout Massachusetts.   CAFL staff represent clients in 13 multidisciplinary litigation offices, two of which are part of the division’s new Family Justice Advocates firm, which handles conflicts matters. The other 11 are part of CPCS’s larger “Public Division” firm (which includes public defenders advocating for clients in other right-to-counsel matters). Most of CAFL’s work is handled by about 900 private attorneys whom CPCS trains and certifies as eligible to accept assignments and who are supported and overseen by our trial and appellate panel support units. Both private attorneys and staff are also supported by the CAFL Training Unit, which is part of CPCS’s Training Department.   CAFL’s client-directed legal advocacy plays a critical role in cases involving families. Whether private or staff, CAFL attorneys protect the rights of parents and children to remain together whenever possible and their right to be reunited quickly when children are removed from their homes. Our legal teams provide clients a voice and work to ensure that the Department of Children and Families and other agencies provide children, young adults, and parents the support and services they need and to which they are entitled under the law. For a parent involved in a C&P case, having a skilled CAFL attorney may mean the difference between the family’s reunification and the termination of parental rights. For a teenager who is the subject of a truancy case, CAFL’s advocacy may secure the special education services that enable the client to succeed in school and avoid being placed in a foster home or in congregate care. For siblings who are at risk of being separated, CAFL’s legal team will fight to ensure that they can stay together.   POSITION OVERVIEW   CPCS is seeking a new Deputy Chief Counsel who has the talent, vision, and perseverance to lead a dedicated, experienced, and skilled group of attorneys, social workers, administrative professionals, and peer advocates in providing ever-improving, high-quality advocacy to clients and engaging with client communities. The Deputy Chief Counsel will also lead the development and advancement of the division’s policy priorities to transform the racism-laden family regulation system – one that regularly traumatizes children, families, and whole communities – into a system that provide supports and services to help them thrive.   The Deputy Chief Counsel provides direct supervision to three Managing Directors (overseeing the staff litigation offices), the Directors of CAFL’s trial and appellate panels, the Director of Social Work, the Director of Private Social Work Services, and an Administrative Assistant. The CAFL Training Director, to whom the Deputy Chief Counsel provides significant substantive direction, and CPCS’s Director of Education Advocacy, whom the Deputy Chief Counsel works with to ensure that CAFL clients’ education needs are met, are also part of the CAFL leadership team.   The CAFL Deputy Chief Counsel reports to the Chief Counsel and is a member of the CPCS Senior Management Team, which develops and implements agency fiscal, operational, human resource, IT, and legislative policies. 

The Public Defender Division Boston Office, covering Boston Municipal Court’s Central, East Boston, Chelsea District Court, and the Suffolk Superior Court, is seeking an Investigator to conduct criminal defense investigations and aid in trial preparation for CPCS Trial Attorneys in Municipal, District, and Superior Court cases.  Investigators are key members of the defense team who assist in developing defense strategies for indigent persons charged with criminal offenses by interviewing witnesses, documenting crime scenes, and testifying in court.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, child welfare, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   OFFICE OVERVIEW   The Public Defender Division Boston Office provides public defense services for Suffolk County.  The Boston Trial Unit is conveniently located in the downtown area of Boston.  It is accessible by MBTA subway and buses, Amtrak Commuter Rail, and ferry services.  The Boston Trial Unit shares space with CPCS Administration, and other divisions and units on two floors of a modernized office building.  Other amenities include restaurants, retail businesses, and historic landmarks.   POSITION OVERVIEW   The Public Defender Division is seeking an Investigator to work in our Boston Office.  Public Defender Division Investigators are key members of the defense team and are responsible for conducting criminal defense investigations and trial preparation for CPCS Trial Attorneys as well as assisting in developing defense strategy for indigent persons charged with criminal offenses in Municipal, District, and Superior courts in Suffolk County. Key responsibilities of Investigators are locating and interviewing persons, obtaining facts, inspecting records, writing reports, documenting crime scenes, searching databases and social media, summonsing witnesses to court, shepherding witnesses through the trial court process, and testifying in court.    The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   Staff Investigators work under the direction of the Attorney-in-Charge, the Chief Investigator, and the Regional Supervising Investigator and work collaboratively with other staff investigators, Attorneys-in-Charge, and CPCS Administration.

The Committee for Public Counsel Services, the Massachusetts public defender agency, is seeking a family regulation/child welfare attorney with management experience to serve as Managing Director for its Family Justice Advocates (FJA) law firm, which currently consists of two multidisciplinary conflicts offices within its Children and Family Law Division (CAFL). In addition to leading, supporting, and overseeing those offices, the Managing Director will be responsible for creating, leading, supporting, and overseeing one or more specialized units, including a team focusing on the representation of transition age youth. The Managing Director will also be part of CAFL’s leadership team.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.     The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   DIVISION OVERVIEW   The Children and Family Law Division provides children, young adults, and indigent parents zealous legal representation in a range of civil matters involving families. These include care and protection (child neglect and abuse cases) cases; termination of parental rights cases; child requiring assistance matters, and guardianship-of-a-minor cases. Our multidisciplinary legal teams defend families against unwarranted governmental interference and protect the constitutional and statutory rights of their clients. CAFL provides leadership, training, and support to staff members and private attorneys throughout Massachusetts.   CAFL staff represent clients in 13 multidisciplinary litigation offices, 11 of which are part of CPCS’s main “Public Division” firm (which includes public defenders representing clients in other right-to-counsel matters). Two offices – one in Springfield and one in Worcester – are part of CAFL’s new FJA law firm, which handles assignments which the Public Division firm cannot because of conflicts. Most of CAFL’s work is handled by about 900 private attorneys whom CPCS trains and certifies as eligible to accept assignments and who are supported and overseen by our trial and appellate panel support units. Both private attorneys and staff are also supported by the CAFL Training Unit, which is part of CPCS’s Training Department. CAFL’s client-directed legal advocacy plays a critical role in cases involving families. CAFL staff and private attorneys protect the rights of parents and children to remain together whenever possible and their right to be reunited quickly when children are removed from their homes. Our legal teams provide clients a voice and work to ensure that the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and other agencies provide children, young adults, and parents the support and services they need and to which they are entitled under the law. For a parent involved in a C&P case, having a skilled CAFL attorney may mean the difference between the family’s reunification and the termination of parental rights. For a teenager who is the subject of a truancy case, CAFL’s advocacy may secure the special education services that enable the client to succeed in school and avoid being placed in a foster home or in congregate care. For siblings who are at risk of being separated, CAFL’s legal team will fight to ensure that they can stay together.    POSITION OVERVIEW   The Managing Director is responsible for ensuring that FJA staff provide high-quality, client-centered, culturally humble representation to child, young adult, and parent clients in CAFL cases. The Managing Director achieves this by overseeing FJA’s two multidisciplinary litigation offices and providing direct supervision and support to the Attorneys in Charge (AICs) for each of those offices. The Managing Director may also oversee, supervise, and support a limited number of other FJA offices in the future if such offices are needed.   In addition, the Managing Director will be responsible for creating, leading, supporting, and overseeing one or more specialized units, including a Transition Age Youth unit. The Transition Age Youth unit will provide leadership, training, and technical support to attorneys representing older youth and young adult clients who are aging out of DCF foster care or who are under the responsibility of DCF (or considering that option) after turning 18. The unit may also directly represent a limited number of young adult clients. In collaboration with the Deputy Chief Counsel and other CAFL leaders, the Managing Director will advise the Chief Counsel regarding where the unit will be located, its size and staffing, and its core functions.   As a member of the CAFL leadership team, the Managing Director collaborates with CAFL’s Deputy Chief Counsel, two other Managing Directors, and other CAFL Directors to promote the division’s policy and program goals. The Managing Director also works with CPCS’s other legal practice divisions and CPCS’s legal support and operational units (Training, Human Resources, IT, Facilities, and General Counsel). The Managing Director reports directly to CAFL’s Deputy Chief Counsel.

The Youth Advocacy Division of the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is seeking applicants for a full-time Social Service Advocate in its Roxbury Office. The Social Services Advocates work with our attorneys and other members of the defense team to help juvenile defendants achieve the best possible legal and life outcomes.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY DESCRIPTION   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   DIVISION OVERVIEW   The Youth Advocacy Division (YAD), the juvenile defender division of CPCS, is committed to ensuring that every indigent child in Massachusetts has access to zealous legal representation in delinquency, GCL Revocation, juvenile murder, juvenile appeals, and youthful offender cases from a diverse and ever improving community of juvenile defenders consisting of both private assigned counsel and staff public defenders. YAD provides leadership, training, support, and oversight to the indigent juvenile defense bar in Massachusetts.  Youth in Massachusetts have a right to all of the due process provided to adults, including jury trials and, sadly, are also subject to adult sentences starting at age 14.  Lawyers representing juveniles need all of the same knowledge and skills as attorneys for adults and also must master the laws governing juveniles, the science of adolescent development, the workings of DCF and DYS,  education law, and positive youth development. As integral members of the defense team, our Social Service Advocates enhance our representation with the unique set of skills, experience, and training of the social work profession.   OFFICE OVERVIEW    The Youth Advocacy Division is hiring a social service advocate position of its Roxbury office.  Roxbury is one of 23 official neighborhoods of Boston, which states that Roxbury serves as the "heart of Black culture in Boston."  Roxbury was one of the first towns founded in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1630.  Today Roxbury is home to a diverse community which includes African American, Hispanic, Asian, and White families. The neighborhood has a total population of nearly 60,000 people. The MBTA provides subway and bus services to the Roxbury community.   POSITION OVERVIEW   YAD is seeking a Social Service Advocate (SSA) for its Roxbury Juvenile Trial Office. The SSA works with the attorneys and other defense team members to help juvenile defendants achieve the best possible legal and life outcomes. Research has shown that meeting the formative developmental needs of young people is essential to both short, and long term, legal success. The SSA is an essential member of the legal team and works with the client in the context of the attorney-client privilege. SSAs play a critical role in screening clients for possible competence and/or criminal responsibility issues. As part of working with the attorney on the pending legal case, the SSA also helps to identify the social and clinical issues that preceded arrest and those that may result from court involvement. The SSA promotes positive youth development by providing forensic case management utilizing a therapeutic approach in large part by identifying, and connecting clients with, a variety of clinical, educational, vocational, and social resources, opportunities, and services.     As an integral member of the team, the SSA role includes bio-psychosocial interviewing and assessment, social history investigation, forensic case management, advocacy for clients within court, educational, mental health, and social service systems; family interactions and interventions; treatment and alternative sentencing planning; report writing, and actively connecting clients with programs and needed services. This work occurs at all stages of the court process, from pre-arraignment through disposition.  Each SSA shares responsibility with the Attorney-in-Charge of the office for facilitating the use of the Positive Youth Development Approach by the entire office staff. The SSA identifies and develops relationships with community-based organizations and other community resources.  The SSA also cultivates relationships with local private social workers and facilitates the increased engagement of social workers by private assigned counsel.  The SSA reports to the Attorney-in-Charge of the office.  

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), the public defender agency for Massachusetts, is seeking attorneys to represent children and parents in family regulation cases.  CPCS provides legal representation for those unable to afford an attorney. The Children and Family Law Division (CAFL) provides legal representation to children and indigent parents in family regulation matters, including care and protection (C&P) proceedings, children requiring assistance (CRA) cases, actions to terminate parental rights, guardianship-of-a-minor cases, and any other child custody proceeding where the Department of Children and Families (DCF) is a party or where the court is considering granting custody to DCF.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW    CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   OVERVIEW   CAFL’s legal advocacy plays a critical role in cases that affect families.  For a parent involved in a Care & Protection case, having a skilled CAFL lawyer may mean the difference between the family’s reunification and the termination of parental rights – the “death penalty of family law.”  For a teenager who is the subject of a truancy Child Requiring Assistance case, CAFL’s advocacy may secure the special education services that enable the client to succeed in school and avoid being placed in a foster home.  For siblings looking for stability after the court has freed them for adoption, a CAFL attorney will fight to ensure that they are provided a permanent home – one that allows them to stay together.   New Trial Attorneys in the CAFL Offices begin their CPCS career with a nationally recognized, comprehensive, skills-based training course to ensure they are ready to represent their clients to their full capabilities.  Continuing legal education programs for new and experienced Trial Attorneys are held periodically to ensure that our Trial Attorneys are up to date on the law and have the skills necessary to provide zealous representation to their clients.   Attorneys interested in applying for these positions are invited to submit an application, as further described below.   Positions will be filled as our FY24 & FY25 budgets allow.  This posting does not guarantee that we will be filling Trial Attorney positions.   These positions have an expected start date in late August/early September 2024.

The Public Defender Division of CPCS is seeking Trial Attorneys to provide criminal defense representation in various offices throughout the Commonwealth.  The Public Defender Division provides legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients who are charged with criminal offenses in both the District and Superior Courts.  Public Defenders begin their work by representing clients who are charged with criminal offenses within the final jurisdiction of the District Court, including misdemeanors and felonies, see G.L. c.218, § 26, and some serious sexual offenses, and occasionally handle initial commitment proceedings under G.L. c.123, §§ 12(e), 35.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   POSITION OVERVIEW   The Public Defender Division provides legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients who are charged with criminal offenses in both the District and Superior Courts.   Public Defenders begin their work by representing clients who are charged with criminal offenses within the final jurisdiction of the District Court, including misdemeanors and felonies, see G.L. c.218, § 26, and some serious sexual offenses, and occasionally handle initial commitment proceedings under G.L. c.123, §§ 12(e), 35. After gaining experience on cases within the final jurisdiction of the District Court, it is expected that Public Defenders will represent clients in the Superior Courts and occasionally represent clients on interlocutory appeals, civil commitments, and certain collateral matters as permitted by a supervisor.  It is also expected that Public Defenders, as they gain experience, will act as informal mentors and advisors to other staff attorneys in the office.   New Trial Attorneys in the Public Defender Division begin their CPCS career with a nationally recognized, comprehensive, skills-based training course to ensure they are ready to represent their clients to their full capabilities.  Continuing legal education programs for new and experienced Trial Attorneys are held periodically to guarantee our Trial Attorneys are up to date on the law and have the skills necessary to provide zealous representation to their clients.   Positions will be filled as our FY24 & FY25 budgets allow.  This posting does not guarantee that we will be filling Trial Attorney positions.   These positions have an expected start date in late August/early September 2024.   The expected staffing needs for Public Defender Division offices are greatest in central, western, and southeastern Massachusetts and we will be concentrating our recruitment and hiring for those regions.

The Public Defender Division of the Committee for Public Counsel Services, the public defender agency of Massachusetts, is seeking applicants for a full-time Social Services Advocate position in our Lowell Office.  As an integral part of the defense team, Social Service Advocates work closely with attorneys, investigators, and other key defense players to obtain the best possible legal and life outcomes for our clients.    We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   OFFICE OVERVIEW   Lowell is the fifth most populous city in Massachusetts. The city is part of the Greater Lowell area also known as the Merrimack Valley region of Massachusetts.  Incorporated in 1826 to serve as a mill town, it became known as the cradle of the American Industrial Revolution because of its textile mills and factories.  During the Cambodian genocide (1975–1979), the city took in an influx of refugees, leading to a Cambodia Town and America's second largest Cambodian-American population. Lowell’s population currently includes a large population from China, the Dominican Republic and Brazil.   Lowell is located 30 minutes north of Boston. The Gallagher Transportation Terminal services the MBTA Commuter Rail lines from Boston as well bus lines and is located across from the new Lowell Justice Center and minutes away from the Church Street office.     POSITION OVERVIEW   The Social Services Advocate works as part of a multidisciplinary legal defense team to provide zealous advocacy to adult criminal defendants in order to achieve the best possible legal and life outcomes. As part of the defense team, the SSA will take direction on a case from the lead attorney and work collaboratively with investigators, support staff, retained experts, law students and other interns. As part of working with the attorney on the pending legal case, the SSA also helps to identify the social and clinical issues that preceded arrest and those that may result from court involvement. The SSA must adhere to the rules of confidentiality under the attorney-client relationship. SSAs work under the supervision of the Social Services Advocate Director, with administrative direction provided by the Attorney in Charge.   As an integral member of the team, the SSA’s role includes bio-psychosocial interviewing and assessment, social history investigation, forensic case management, advocacy for clients within court, carceral, mental health, and social service systems, fostering family interactions and intervention, treatment and sentencing planning, report writing, testifying, and making direct connections between clients and programs.  Social services intervention occurs at all stages of the court process, from the initial arraignment through resolution and post-conviction.

The Children and Family Law Division (CAFL) is seeking attorneys to represent children and parents in family regulation cases for immediate openings in its Western Massachusetts offices. CAFL provides legal representation to children and indigent parents in family regulation matters, including care and protection (C&P) proceedings, children requiring assistance (CRA) cases, actions to terminate parental rights, guardianship-of-a-minor cases, and any other child custody proceeding where the Department of Children and Families (DCF) is a party or where the court is considering granting custody to DCF.   We fight for equal justice and human dignity by supporting our clients in achieving their legal and life goals. We zealously advocate for the rights of individuals and promote just public policy to protect the rights of all.   Our Values   Courage   •   Accountability   •   Respect   •   Excellence   DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of our assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the fullness of excellent legal representation.  We are dedicated to building and maintaining strong professional relationships, while striving to accept, listen to and respect the diverse circumstances of each client, as we dedicate ourselves to meeting their individual needs.  It is our CPCS mission to achieve these goals, and in furtherance thereof, we embrace and endorse diversity, equity and inclusion as our core values as we maintain a steadfast commitment to: (1) Ensure that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human differences and experience; (2) Provide a work climate that is respectful and supports success; and (3) Promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS leadership is responsible for ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to achieve these goals with any level of certainty is ultimately the responsibility of each member of the CPCS community.   AGENCY OVERVIEW   CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing an attorney when the state or federal constitution or a state statute requires the appointment of an attorney for a person who cannot afford to retain one.  The agency provides representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry cases, as well as in appeals and post-conviction and post-judgment proceedings related to those matters.   The clients we represent are diverse across every context imaginable and bring many unique cultural dimensions to the matters we address. This reality creates a critical need for CPCS staff to be culturally competent and able to work well with people of different races, ethnicities, genders and/or sexual orientation identities, abilities, and limited English proficiency, among other protected characteristics.   OFFICE OVERVIEWS   We are seeking attorneys to work in our three Western Massachusetts offices: Springfield, Pittsfield, and Northampton.  All of our offices are robust defender teams that include attorneys, paralegals, social workers, and administrative support staff. Team members work diligently to help and support CAFL clients to achieve their legal and life goals.  Our offices have a strong culture of teamwork and strongly believe in community engagement and partnership to assist clients as they navigate the family regulation system.   Springfield   The CAFL Springfield Trial Office provides public defense in family regulation matters in Hampden County.  Springfield, the third largest city in Massachusetts, is located in Western Massachusetts along the Connecticut River. It is centrally located: Northampton is 25 minutes away, Hartford is 27 minutes away, Worcester is 55 minutes away, Boston is 90 minutes away, and New York City is 2 ½ hours away. Springfield is best known for being the birthplace of basketball and the home of Theodor Geisel, better known as “Dr. Seuss.”   Pittsfield   The CAFL Berkshire Trial Office provides public defense in family regulation matters and is in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.  Situated within the heart of the Berkshires in Massachusetts, Pittsfield offers a laidback city atmosphere inspired by its local roots. The Berkshires are a special place, filled with artists, artisans, and purveyors who thrive on originality. Deep, historic roots can be traced to this region, and yet it’s laced with a refreshingly modern vibe in its dining, culture, and design.  All of this is within the backdrop of the Berkshires, the mountains of western Massachusetts with outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, viewing spectacular Fall foliage, and renowned annual festivals including the Boston Symphony Orchestra.   Northampton   The CAFL Northampton Trial Office provides public defense in family regulation matters in Franking and Hampshire Counties.  The city of Northampton provides a sophisticated rural lifestyle combined with the cultural, artistic, academic, and culinary amenities of a big city.  It offers more restaurants, eclectic shops, galleries, theaters, and performance venues than most urban centers ten times its size.   You will also find two rivers, mountain views, landscaped parks, and meadow walks.  It provides a unique and charming combination of natural and cultural activities that should not be missed.    POSITION OVERVIEW   CAFL’s legal advocacy plays a critical role in cases that affect families. For a parent involved in a C&P case, having a skilled CAFL lawyer may mean the difference between the family’s reunification and the termination of parental rights – the “death penalty of family law.”  For a teenager who is the subject of a truancy CRA case, CAFL’s advocacy may secure the special education services that enable the client to succeed in school and avoid being placed in a foster home. For siblings looking for stability after the court has freed them for adoption, a CAFL attorney will fight to ensure that they are provided a permanent home – one that allows them to stay together.   New Trial Attorneys in the CAFL Offices begin their CPCS career with a nationally recognized, comprehensive, skills-based training course to ensure they are ready to represent their clients to their full capabilities. Continuing legal education programs for new and experienced Trial Attorneys are held periodically to ensure that our Trial Attorneys are up to date on the law and have the skills necessary to provide zealous representation to their clients.   The CAFL offices in Western Massachusetts serve clients in Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin Counties with offices in Springfield, Northampton, and Pittsfield.

JOIN THE FIGHT!   GROW YOUR LEGAL PRACTICE AND HELP CHILDREN AND PARENTS IN NEED!  APPLY FOR OUR CAFL TRAINING AND BECOME CERTIFIED TO HELP THESE FAMILIES!   We need zealous, effective attorneys who want to protect the rights of parents and children in state intervention cases and Child Requiring Assistance (CRA) cases.   ATTORNEYS ACCEPTED INTO THIS TRAINING WILL RECEIVE A “CERTIFICATION PAYMENT” OF $5,032 upon the following: 1) successful completion of the CAFL Trial Panel Certification Training; and 2) within twelve months of completing the training the attorney (a) receives appointments on 12 care and protection cases, and (b) submits 600 hours of billing on care and protection cases.   READ BELOW AND APPLY FOR CAFL TRIAL PANEL TRAINING BY JULY 26!   We are looking to increase the number of attorneys handling state intervention cases (typically referred to as “care and protection” or “termination of parental rights” cases) in the Massachusetts Juvenile Court.

The Private Counsel Division of the Committee for Public Counsel Services is seeking private attorneys who wish to be self-employed to become contractors with their local Bar Advcoate Programs.  This is not a job posting for a position within CPCS.   Overview   The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing legal services to indigent persons in criminal matters where the laws of the Commonwealth or the state or federal constitution mandate that counsel be provided.  As part of its mission to provide holistic, client-centered representation, CPCS contracts with local Bar Advocate Programs, located in each county of the Commonwealth, to provide legal services to adult criminal defendants and juvenile offenders.  This posting is specifically for private attorneys who wish to be self-employed and not for those attorneys who wish to be employed by the Committee for Public Counsel Services.    Qualifications   - Must be licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts   How to Apply    CONTACT YOUR LOCAL BAR ADVOCATE PROGRAM TO APPLY:   Barnstable County Bar Advocates, Inc. 2 Harold Street Harwich Port, MA  02646 508-432-8866 (same for fax) barnstableba@publiccounsel.net Kim Sarowsky, Administrator   Bristol County Bar Advocates, Inc. 448 County Street, 1st Floor New Bedford, MA  02740-5012 508-999-1322; 508-999-0477 (FAX) bristolba@publiccounsel.net Kelly Walsh Barley, Program Administrator       Franklin County Bar Assoc. Advocates, Inc. 20 Federal Street, Suite 4 Greenfield, MA  01301-3302 413-774-2994 same for FAX franklinba@publiccounsel.net Jennifer Lively, Executive Director   Hampshire County Bar Advocates, Inc. 15 Gothic Street, Suite 10 Northampton, MA  01060-3084 413-586-5038; 413-586-7388 (FAX) hampshireadvocates@gmail.com Rebecca J. Ryan, Administrator   Middlesex Defense Attorneys, Inc. 200 Trade Center, Room 605 Woburn, MA  01801 781-939-0441; 781-939-0442 (FAX) jstone@mdalaw.org  Karen Brann, Program Administrator   Berkshire County Bar Advocates, Inc. 85 East Street Pittsfield, MA  01201-5313 413-442-7444; 413-442-7791 (FAX) berkshireba@publiccounsel.net Brenda K. Fiero, Administrator   Essex County Bar Assoc. Advocates, Inc. 100 Cummings Center, Suite 312 J Beverly, MA  01915 978-744-7092; 978-741-7415 (FAX) ecbaa@ecbaa.net  Deborah J. Pollock, Administrator       Hampden County Lawyers for Justice, Inc. 20 Maple Street, 2nd Floor Springfield, MA  01103 413-732-7110; 413-732-6545 (FAX) hampdenba@hclji.org Sarah Pegus, Administrator   Island Bar Advocates, Inc. P.O. Box 1270 282 Upper Main Street Edgartown, MA  02539 508-627-3322; 508-627-7848 (FAX) rdm@edgartownlaw.com   Norfolk County Bar Advocates, Inc. 1359 Hancock Street, Suite 4 Quincy, MA  02169 617-472-6006; 617-472-6004 (FAX) norfolkba@publiccounsel.net Barbara Fonseca, Executive Director   Pilgrim Advocates, Inc. 144 Main Street, 4th Floor Brockton, MA  02301 508-583-6966; 508-583-6967 (FAX) pilgrimadv@publiccounsel.net Jean M. Lee, Executive Director   Bar Advocates of Worcester County, Inc. 370 Main Street, Suite 975 Worcester, MA  01608-2413 508-753-9069; 508-754-6909 (FAX) worcesterba@publiccounsel.net Christina Murphy, Administrator Suffolk Lawyers for Justice, Inc. 529 Main Street, Suite P242 Charlestown, MA  02129 617-348-0088; 857-576-5603 (FAX) director@sljinc.org or  www.sljinc.org Nicole M. Revesz, Executive Director     DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION MISSION STATEMENT   CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of its clients by providing zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and excellent representation.  In fulfilling its mission, CPCS is committed to fostering diversity at all levels of the agency.  We are dedicated to building a strong professional relationship with each of our clients, to understanding their diverse circumstances, and to meeting their needs.  In striving always to achieve those goals, CPCS embraces diversity and inclusion as core values and is steadfast in our commitment to:  (1) ensuring that CPCS management and staff members represent a broad range of human difference and experience; (2) providing a work climate that is respectful and that supports success; and (3) promoting the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS's leadership is responsible for ensuring excellence, diversity, and inclusion. Our ability to achieve these goals depends on the efforts of all of us.