EMPLOYMENT ANNOUNCEMENT

May 2, 2023

Capital Post-Conviction Attorney Position

The Mississippi Office of Capital Post-Conviction Counsel (CPCC) is accepting applications for an attorney position. CPCC is a Mississippi state agency that represents death row inmates in their state post-conviction proceedings after the conclusion of their direct appeals. CPCC is dedicated to protecting the rights and dignity of our clients through zealous, compassionate, effective legal advocacy.

Position Description:

The ideal candidate will be adept at written and oral advocacy and committed to client-centered representation. CPCC attorneys work as part of a team but also have a large degree of autonomy and lead their teams throughout post-conviction proceedings.

Attorneys represent clients from the onset of post-conviction proceedings. Attorneys must develop and maintain a strong working relationship with clients as well as review and analyze records and other documents and identify potential legal claims and investigative needs. Attorneys work closely with fact and mitigation investigators.

Attorneys will conduct hearings in trial courts and other ancillary proceedings as well as participate in oral argument before the Mississippi Supreme Court. CPCC attorneys must be self-motivated and able to manage a variety of tasks and a substantial caseload. Some travel is required.

The successful applicant will demonstrate a commitment to the defense of indigent prisoners in a section of the United States ripe for social and criminal justice reform. The cost of living in Mississippi is very reasonable, and the state is rich with authentic music, art, and food.

Experience and Qualifications:

• Must have been a member in good standing of the Mississippi Bar or of some other state bar association for at least five years immediately preceding application for this position
• Must have practiced for three years, in federal or state court, in at least one of the following areas: (1) criminal trials or direct appeals before a court of record and/or (2) post-conviction or habeas proceedings
• Must have substantial knowledge and understanding of the relevant state and federal law, both procedural and substantive, governing capital cases
• Must demonstrate proficiency in and commitment to zealous advocacy onbehalf of indigent defendants or prisoners
• Within one year of accepting this position, must be admitted to theMississippi Bar and admitted to practice before the federal courts ofMississippi and the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals

Salary:

Salary is based on experience, with a maximum salary of $120,960. Health insurance with a nominal premium and other benefits are provided.

Selection Criteria:

Preference will be given to those who have worked in capital defense at the trial, appellate, and/or post-conviction level, but all interested attorneys are encouraged to apply.

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates should send: (1) a cover letter discussing their experience, skills, and interest in death penalty work; (2) a resume; (3) three professional references with contact information; and (4) a writing sample—preferably a brief which was primarily drafted by the applicant—to Alissa Humphrey at ahumphrey@pcc.state.ms.us. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

CPCC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, or disability.