The Youth Advocacy Division (YAD) Salem Office 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   Interns will work with lawyers committed to ensuring that every indigent child in Massachusetts had access to zealous legal representation, which incorporates a Positive Youth Development approach, in delinquency and youthful offender cases.  Interns will assist lawyers and work closely with social workers to represent juveniles. YAD provides effective representation in court as well as educational advocacy and individualized referrals to community-based resources. 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, and locating and interviewing witnesses. 

The Youth Advocacy Division (YAD) Springfield Office 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   Interns will work with lawyers committed to ensuring that every indigent child in Massachusetts had access to zealous legal representation, which incorporates a Positive Youth Development approach, in delinquency and youthful offender cases.  Interns will assist lawyers and work closely with social workers to represent juveniles. YAD provides effective representation in court as well as educational advocacy and individualized referrals to community-based resources. 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, and locating and interviewing witnesses. 

The Youth Advocacy Division (YAD) Worcester Office 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   Interns will work with lawyers committed to ensuring that every indigent child in Massachusetts had access to zealous legal representation, which incorporates a Positive Youth Development approach, in delinquency and youthful offender cases.  Interns will assist lawyers and work closely with social workers to represent juveniles. YAD provides effective representation in court as well as educational advocacy and individualized referrals to community-based resources. 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, and locating and interviewing witnesses. 

The Committee for Public Counsel Services, the Massachusetts public defender agency, is accepting applications for the Deputy Chief Counsel of the Private Counsel Division.  The Private Counsel Division delivers legal services to indigent clients through assigned private attorneys in criminal defense trial and post-conviction cases as well as commitment and registration cases for persons convicted of sex offenses.  The Deputy Chief is a member of the Senior Management Team that develops and implements agency fiscal, operational, human resource and legislative policies.   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 legal counsel 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 Private Counsel Division delivers legal services to indigent clients through assigned private attorneys in criminal defense trial, post-conviction, and parole cases as well as in civil commitment trials, registration administrative hearings, and appeals from those legal proceedings.  Our mission is to provide excellent legal services to each and every client by ensuring that all assigned attorneys possess the skills they need through experience or training, meet high standards of performance, and have ready access to mentoring, supervision and continuing legal education.   The Private Counsel Division utilizes the services of over 2000 private assigned counsel statewide to provide legal representation in criminal and civil cases.  The Deputy Chief Counsel is responsible for the leadership, support, training and oversight of private bar panels in criminal, sexually dangerous person and sex offender registry cases, and in appeals and post-conviction cases related to those matters.   To support this effort CPCS provides assigned private counsel with access to consulting attorneys with expertise in trial skills, post-conviction matters, immigration law, forensic evidence and expert witnesses and sex offender registration.  The Private Counsel Division also includes a grant funded Innocence Program.   POSITION OVERVIEW   CPCS is seeking a new Deputy Chief Counsel of the Private Counsel Division who has the talent, vision, and perseverance to lead panels of dedicated, experienced, and skilled groups of defenders and social workers, as well as administrative personnel in achieving an ever-improving quality of advocacy, deeper engagement with clients and their communities, and steadily improving outcomes for clients.    The Deputy Chief Counsel will oversee all aspects of the Private Counsel Division, including the selection, certification, and training of panel attorneys as well as provide oversight to the bar advocate programs. The Deputy Chief Counsel will directly oversee the management team of the Private Counsel Division, including the Directors of Criminal Trials, Criminal Appeals, Alternative Commitment Support Registration Unit, Parole Advocacy, Immigration Impact, Innocence Program, and Private Social Work.   The Deputy Chief Counsel of the Private Counsel Division reports to the Chief Counsel and is a member of CPCS Senior Leadership, which develops and implements agency fiscal, operational, human resource, and legislative policies.

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) Salem Public Defender Division currently has openings for 2024 Fall semester interns.     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 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 Mental Health Litigation Division (MHLD) of the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is seeking a full-time Trial Attorney for civil commitment cases including trials and a limited number of appellate cases for its Worcester Office. The Worcester Office is responsible for civil commitments filed in the Worcester District Court for individuals facing civil commitments to Worcester Recovery Center & Hospital (Dept. of Mental Health), UMass Memorial Inpatient Psychiatric Units, St. Vincent Hospital, the Hospital for Behavioral Medicine and other hospitals as assigned.   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 Worcester Office is located in downtown Worcester, a five-time recipient of the All-American City Award.  It is New England’s second largest city and combines the historic charm of a small town with the conveniences of a thriving metropolis.  With more than 70 cultural venues, including world-class museums, concert halls, theaters, renowned breweries, and over 100 local restaurants, it also provides a central location from which to visit all of New England, located 45 minutes from both Boston and Rhode Island.    The Worcester Office is responsible for civil commitments filed in the Worcester District Court for individuals facing civil commitments to Worcester Recovery Center & Hospital (Dept. of Mental Health), UMass Memorial Inpatient Psychiatric Units, St. Vincent Hospital, and the Hospital for Behavioral Medicine and other hospitals as assigned.   POSITION OVERVIEW   The Mental Health Litigation Division is committed to protecting the legal and constitutional rights of citizens facing civil commitment to a psychiatric facility, guardianship petitions, and involuntary treatment orders including the administration of antipsychotic medications. Mental Health Litigation Division Trial Attorneys receive training in issues relating to mental health and the statutory and constitutional rights of our clients.  Mental Health Litigation Division Trial Attorneys provide zealous representation in mental health cases, primarily to indigent persons in proceedings seeking the initial commitment to, continued confinement at, or authorization to treat by psychiatric facilities operated by the Massachusetts Department of Corrections, Department of Mental Health (DMH) and private psychiatric facilities licensed by DMH.  Attorneys will appear primarily in District Court sessions conducted at facilities for which the Office is responsible or in Superior Court divisions within the county in which the facilities are located but may be required to represent clients in proceedings emanating from other facilities and conducted in other courts of the Commonwealth. Trial Attorneys may also represent clients in appeals to the Appellate Divisions of the District and Municipal Courts.

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 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 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.