Attorney 1

Public Defender Council, Georgia•Griffin, GA

About The Position

The Griffin Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is hiring an Assistant Public Defender 1 to represent indigent clients in criminal cases in Superior Court in Spalding County. This is beginning-level professional legal work; the attorney may assist with cases of routine complexity. The attorney provides competent and zealous representation throughout criminal proceedings, including arraignment, pretrial hearings, trial preparation, plea negotiations, trial, and sentencing. The position serves at the pleasure of the Executive Director. The selected candidate must hold a Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university and be licensed to practice law in Georgia, or be eligible to sit for the next Georgia Bar examination and obtain passage and licensure within one year of hiring, subject to position-specific restrictions. Applicants must apply through Team Georgia Careers and email a cover letter, resume, and references to William Imhoff.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university.
Georgia law license in good standing, or eligibility to sit for the next Georgia Bar examination followed by passage and licensure within one year of hiring; some positions may not allow the eligibility clause.
Knowledge of case research and documentation.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local criminal laws.
Knowledge of investigating and preparing cases for hearings and trials.
Ability to perform the essential functions and learn, comprehend, and apply relevant state or departmental policies, practices, and procedures.
Ability to make sound, well-informed decisions, understand their implications, and act to accomplish organizational goals, including in uncertain situations.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including strong written and spoken communication.
High work commitment and ethical standards.
Meet qualifications specific to the job responsibilities.

Responsibilities

Attend scheduled court appearances; create, maintain, and close case files; record case data and activities; review calendars; and coordinate with court administration, clients, witnesses, experts, and others.
Represent clients at court proceedings, including arraignments, preliminary and pretrial hearings, probation and sentencing, post-adjudication or post-conviction hearings, appeals, and related proceedings.
Negotiate on clients’ behalf, prepare and argue motions, conduct jury selection, deliver opening and closing statements, present evidence, question witnesses, and make appropriate objections and arguments.
Review discovery and criminal histories; interview clients; request and inspect records and evidence; develop and investigate defense leads; identify and interview witnesses and alibis; observe crime scenes; subpoena and prepare witnesses; and prepare clients for trial.
Determine the need for expert witnesses and psychological or psychiatric evaluations; develop defense theories and case strategies; and anticipate legal issues.
Review police reports, witness statements, laboratory reports, motions, and case law updates; prepare and process forms, reports, correspondence, motions, orders, letters, notices, petitions, legal briefs, trial summaries, and departmental reports; and maintain records.
Secure mitigating evidence for sentencing or restitution; review court orders and case plans; file related requests, motions, and appeals; advocate for clients; and secure additional client services.
Present mitigating evidence, negotiate resolutions with assistant district attorneys, and advise clients about accepting or rejecting plea offers.
Research relevant case law and other relevant procedures or scientific topics; prepare briefs, motions, and responses; write case summaries; draft jury charges; and prepare trial notes.
Develop supportive attorney-client relationships; explain and advise clients about their rights, the investigative and judicial process, and alternative courses of action; and provide case-status updates.
Attend relevant conferences, seminars, meetings, and training; keep abreast of legal changes; and participate in professional organizations.
Perform other duties as assigned.