Assistant District Attorney- Appellate Unit
Berkshire District Attorney’s Office
Assistant District Attorney- Appellate Unit
The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office is seeking to hire a full-time attorney who will join the Appellate Unit as an Assistant District Attorney. Attorneys from diverse personal and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
MISSION OF THE BERKSHIRE DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office serves all 32 cities and towns in Berkshire County and is responsible for all-criminal prosecutions in Berkshire County. The Office handles cases in the County’s District Courts (including Jury sessions), Juvenile Courts, and Superior Court, and is responsible for all appeals to the State Appeals Court and Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. In addition, the Office provides critical services and programs to victims and their families and to the community at large. The Office is a Commonwealth agency, established in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 12, Sections 12 and 13.
Job Title: Assistant District Attorney- Appellate Unit
Vacancies: 1
Exempt: Fulltime; 37.5 hours/ week M-F
Reports to: Chief of Appeals
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Location: Pittsfield Office
Responsibilities
- Attention to detail, careful legal research, and the efficient and timely completion of briefs and memoranda of law.
- Handle all phases of direct appeals in the Massachusetts Appeals Court and Supreme Judicial Court.
- Maintain a varied caseload involving a variety of post-conviction matters, including, but not limited to:
- Motions to revise and revoke sentences;
- Motions to withdraw a guilty plea;
- Motions for a new trial.
- Assist trial attorneys with motions to suppress and other evidentiary issues, motions to dismiss, motions in limine, and drafting jury instructions.
- May also be required to analyze and develop policy initiatives and proposed legislation on behalf of the District Attorney.
- Opportunity to second chair Superior Court attorneys in the prosecution of homicides of other major felonies.
Job Qualifications:
- JD from accredited law school and member in good standing of the Massachusetts Bar;
- Interest in criminal law and procedure, and appellate work;
- Ability to work independently and be part of a team;
- Strong written and oral advocacy skills, strong work ethic and excellent organizational skills with attention to detail; and
- The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate a connection to the communities we serve and an interest in supporting a respectful and inclusive work environment.
All full time positions offer a State benefit package that includes medical/dental/vision insurance, life and disability insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation, personal and sick leave and paid parental leave. All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of background check. All positions serve at the pleasure of the District Attorney.
Berkshire District Attorney’s Office is an EEO Employer with a firm commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in hiring practices.
Please send cover letter, resume, writing sample and references to contact.berkshireDA-hiring@mass.gov.