Attorney 1

Public Defender Council, Georgia•Winder, GA

About The Position

The Piedmont Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is seeking an Assistant Public Defender 1 to represent indigent clients in criminal cases in Superior Court in Barrow County. The attorney provides competent and zealous legal representation throughout criminal proceedings, including arraignment, pretrial hearings, trial preparation, plea negotiations, trial, and sentencing. This is beginning-level professional legal work and may include assisting with cases of routine complexity. The position serves at the pleasure of the Executive Director.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university.
License to practice law in Georgia, or eligibility to sit for the next Georgia Bar examination, pass the examination, and obtain Georgia licensure within one year of hiring; reciprocity may apply. 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 applicable state or departmental policies, practices, and procedures.
Ability to make sound, well-informed decisions, understand their impact and implications, act in uncertain situations to accomplish organizational goals, and cause change.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including superior written and spoken communication.
High commitment to work and a high standard of ethical conduct.

Responsibilities

Attend scheduled court appearances; open, maintain, document, and close case files; review calendars; and coordinate with court administration, clients, witnesses, experts, and others.
Represent clients in court proceedings at various stages, including arraignments, preliminary and pretrial hearings, probation and sentencing, post-adjudication and post-conviction hearings, appeals, and related proceedings.
Negotiate on behalf of clients; prepare and argue motions; conduct jury selection; make opening and closing statements; present evidence; question witnesses; and make appropriate objections and arguments.
Review discovery; interview clients; request and inspect records and evidence; review criminal histories; prepare graphics and exhibits; investigate defense leads and alternative explanations; identify and interview witnesses and alibis; observe crime scenes; subpoena and prepare witnesses; and prepare clients for trial.
Determine the need for expert witnesses, procure and interview them, assess the need for psychological or psychiatric evaluations, anticipate legal issues, and develop defense theories and case strategies.
Review police reports, witness statements, laboratory reports, criminal histories, defense motions, and case law updates; process and maintain relevant documentation and records.
Prepare forms, reports, correspondence, motions, orders, letters, notices, petitions, legal briefs, trial summaries, and departmental reports; compile data and maintain computerized or hard-copy 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 services for clients.
Argue 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 fields; prepare briefs, motions, and responses; write case summaries; draft jury charges; and prepare trial notes.
Build 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.