AMANDA GARLAND
New Ross,IN
Summary
Experienced legal professional with proven track record in criminal defense. Demonstrates strong analytical skills, courtroom advocacy, and legal research. Focuses on team collaboration and adapts to changing needs to achieve optimal results. Known for excellent client communication and strategic case management.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Public Defender
Montgomery County Public Defender’s Office
06.2022 - Current
- Cultivated strong relationships within the legal community, enhancing collaboration and fostering a positive reputation for the Public Defender's Office.
- Represented defendants in court at arraignments, preliminary hearings, pre-trial conferences, and trials.
- Negotiating offers and plea agreements with opposing counsel.
- Conduct legal research.
- Daily courtroom experience.
- Represent clients in family recovery court.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation changes affecting clients' cases, and adapting strategies accordingly.
- Mentored junior attorneys, providing guidance and support in legal research and trial techniques.
- Prepared and filed pleadings, motions and other legal documents in court proceedings.
Local Office Attorney
Indiana Department of Child Services
02.2022 - 06.2022
- Provided legal advice and legal services to the Department of Child Services for all matters relating to child welfare.
- Represented the State in Child In Need of Services (CHINS) cases, termination of parental rights, and other legal issues relating to the safety and permanency of children.
- Conducted legal research, analyzed and evaluated facts, and drafted legal documents.
- Organized and managed caseload in preparation of hearings and/or litigation.
- Generated appropriate pleadings, motions and discovery.
- Courtroom litigation experience.
Family Case Manager
Indiana Department of Child Services
05.2018 - 02.2022
- Ensured the safety, stability, well-being, and permanency of all the children on my caseload.
- Helped rehabilitate and reunify families by putting services in place to help them overcome substance abuse issues, learn adequate parenting skills, and maintain a safe and stable living environment for their children.
- Drafted legal documents, conducted discovery, and helped the DCS attorney prepare for trial.
- Represented DCS’s interest and advocated for the children’s best interest in Court.
- Communicated regularly with biological parents, foster parents, providers, and children on my caseload.
- Completed work from home for over one year during COVID.
- Increased community awareness of available resources by participating in outreach events and developing partnerships with local organizations.
- Transitioned from family case manager to a local office attorney after passing the Indiana Bar exam.
Education
J.D. -
Valparaiso University School of Law
Valparaiso, IN05.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Indiana University
Bloomington, IN05.2011
High School Diploma -
Tri-West High School
Lizton, IN05.2008
Skills
- Problem solving and critical thinking
- Legal research
- Works well independently or on a team
- Strong legal writing skills
- Adaptability and ability to manage pressure
- Case analysis
- Client advocacy
- Analytical reasoning
- Client confidentiality
- Negotiate Settlements
- Work with opposing counsel
- Electronic filing
- Courtroom presence
- Multitasking
- Technology Skills: Microsoft Office, Westlaw, LexisNexis
BAR ADMISSIONS
Licensed with the Indiana Bar since September 2021
Timeline
Deputy Public Defender
Montgomery County Public Defender’s Office
06.2022 - Current
Local Office Attorney
Indiana Department of Child Services
02.2022 - 06.2022
Family Case Manager
Indiana Department of Child Services
05.2018 - 02.2022
J.D. -
Valparaiso University School of Law
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Indiana University
High School Diploma -
Tri-West High School
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