The Michigan Appellate Assigned Counsel System (MAACS) is accepting applications from conscientious criminal defense attorneys with all levels of criminal appellate experience. MAACS roster attorneys receive reasonable and reliable attorney fees, investigation and litigation support services, legal research assistance, and expanded resources and training.
MAACS oversees the appointment of criminal appellate counsel in Michigan and the roster of private attorneys providing representation to their indigent clients. There is no experience prerequisite.
Most new roster attorneys are assigned to plea and resentencing appeals, while those with more experience may handle trial appeals and motions for relief from judgment. The work takes place in every circuit court in the state, the Court of Appeals, and the Michigan Supreme Court.
The MAACS Litigation Support Counsel helps develop case strategies, second-chairs evidentiary hearings, provides briefing support, and assists with other aspects of MAACS work. Roster attorneys also have access to mitigation and reentry specialists to assist clients seeking resentencing or returning home.
New roster attorneys must complete an orientation program before accepting assignments, and all roster attorneys must complete 12 hours annually of relevant CLE training. Roster attorneys must also adhere to a set of nine minimum performance standards.
To apply to join the roster or learn more, visit www.sado.org/maacs or contact MAACS Administrator Brad Hall at bhall@sado.org or Deputy Administrator Patricia Maceroni at pmaceroni@sado.org.
