Missouri State Public Defenders Holistic Defense Development VISTA - FT

The Holistic Defense Development VISTAs will play a crucial role in establishing a more holistic approach – one that addresses the underlying needs of criminal defendants- to public defense in Missouri. VISTAs will 1) Develop understanding of public defense and the problems afflicting MSPD clients 2) Evaluate the current state of Holistic Defense Services by gathering and analyzing feedback and program data 3) Maintain and build upon existing program partnerships, resources, guides and manuals, and 4) Develop a framework for maintaining and expanding grant funding, training initiatives, and volunteer networks related to the holistic representation of MSPD clients, and more. VISTAs will increase MSPD’s capacity to improve client wellbeing and reduce incarceration. Those seeking to positively impact the intersection of Missouri’s legal system and poverty are encouraged to join in providing stability to our vulnerable neighbors and building a more equitable legal system. Qualified candidates will be inquisitive, collaborative, resourceful, open-minded, effective at expressing complex concepts, and passionate about public service. Preferred candidates will display effective leadership, organization, communication, and project management skills. Ideal candidates will have excellent attention to detail, strong computer skills, and a general knowledge of statistics. The position will span from 7/17/2023 to 7/17/2024 and offers site flexibility across Missouri.

Apply on my.americorps.gov.

The Missouri State Public Defender (MSPD) is developing a more holistic approach to public defense– an approach addressing the needs and risk factors of clients outside the scope of traditional representation. VISTAs will evaluate MSPD’s Holistic Defense Services efforts to outline areas for improvement in addressing the underlying needs of poor criminal defendants in Missouri. They will work with attorneys, social workers, AmeriCorps Holistic Advocates, and MSPD leadership to increase MSPD’s capacity to address such needs, improve the wellbeing and economic opportunity of clients, and break the cycle of poverty that afflicts clients and their communities. MSPD was established in 1982 to provide high quality, zealous advocacy for the indigent- those who cannot afford legal counsel- accused of crimes in the state of Missouri- which boasts some of the highest incarceration/recidivism rates in the nation. Research shows that challenges the criminally accused face are rooted in poverty and instability, which manifests as untreated physical and mental health conditions, substance abuse, housing instability, unemployment, and a lack of social support – all of which afflict MSPD clients.