Department Information

Description of Job

How to Apply:

Please email your resume and cover letter to:

Tim McArthur, Social Work Supervisor, timothy.mcarthur@coloradodefenders.us no later than Sunday, March 31st 2024 11:59 p.m. (Mountain Time). Your credentials should address how your skills and experience meet the qualifications for the position; and your cover letter should highlight your interest in this position and working for the Office of the State Public Defender.

• 6 Health Plans – Cigna & Kaiser options
• Basic Vision Insurance - included with medical plans
• Dental Insurance
• State Paid Life Insurance
• State Paid Short-Term Disability
• FSA – Healthcare and Dependent Care
• HSA Plan with Employer Contribution
• Generous Paid Time Off
• 11 paid holidays
• Access to Mental Health and Well-Being Resources
• Colorado PERA
• 401(k) and 457 Supplemental Retirement Plans

Typical duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
(Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.)

• Conduct assessments and compile psychosocial histories to develop recommendations concerning pretrial release, detention, case preparation, alternative placements, treatment options, conditions of probation or diversion, and sentencing and post-sentencing options, as appropriate.
• Conduct assessments to identify physical or mental health issues, substance abuse or other patterns potentially influencing the client’s development, personality or behavior. Document and interpret symptoms of mental and behavioral impairment to assist the defense in developing case strategies.
• Collect social and family histories through interviews and document review, including highly sensitive and confidential information. Identify psychosocial influences and patterns in the client’s development and behavior including, but not limited to, socio/cultural/economic status and behavioral health issues.
• Assist in obtaining and reviewing relevant records, evaluations or reports; and, analyze the significance of information relevant to the client’s circumstances and case. Where appropriate, assist the defense team in documenting and organizing digital and physical files of information collected.
• Assist the defense team in identifying medical or mental health experts to further examine, evaluate and testify regarding the client’s physical or mental health issues. Assist in interpreting evaluation findings.
• Serve as a collaborative member of the defense team: Consult with attorneys on the appropriate approach to the case; maintain regular and timely communications with the team; provide support to the client; and, identify and advocate for appropriate options for the client.
• Participate in pretrial and sentencing hearings, prepare reports, and provide additional support as requested by the defense attorney.
• Keep current on statewide resources available and relevant to client needs such as, treatment programs and alternative placements. Conduct research necessary to ensure resources are current.
• Attend multi-agency and multi-disciplinary staffing meetings regarding the client.
• May supervise and mentor student interns enrolled in a graduate-level social work education program.
• Requires frequent travel within the State of Colorado.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights

Minimal Educational / Professional Qualifications:

• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university educational program in social work;
• Licensure to practice social work (LSW) in the State of Colorado within 90 days of employment.

• Training or experience in a criminal defense system.
• Experience working with adults involved in the criminal justice system.

Supplemental Information