Attorney 1

Georgia Department of Revenue•Winder, GA

12d

About The Position

The Piedmont Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is seeking an Assistant Public Defender 1 for Barrow County. The attorney provides competent and zealous legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients in criminal cases in Superior Court. The position performs beginning-level professional legal work and may assist with cases of routine complexity. The attorney represents clients throughout criminal proceedings, including arraignment, pretrial hearings, trial preparation, plea negotiations, trial, and sentencing, as well as related hearings and appeals. The role includes case investigation and preparation, legal research and drafting, courtroom advocacy, client counseling, and coordination with court administration and other participants in cases. 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 and obtain passage and Georgia licensure within one year of hiring; reciprocity may apply. Some positions may not allow the eligibility clause.
Current membership in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia, as stated in the job description.
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 essential functions and learn, comprehend, and apply state or departmental policies, practices, and procedures.
Ability to make sound, well-informed decisions, understand their impact and implications, and act in uncertain situations to accomplish organizational goals.
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; create and maintain case files and related records; review calendars; and coordinate with court administration, clients, witnesses, experts, and others.
Represent clients in court at various stages of cases, 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 alternative explanations and defense leads; identify and interview witnesses and alibis; observe crime scenes; subpoena and prepare witnesses; prepare clients for trial; and determine whether expert witnesses or psychological or psychiatric evaluations are needed.
Anticipate legal issues and develop defense theories and case strategies.
Review police reports, witness statements, laboratory reports, criminal histories, defense motions, case law updates, and other documentation; process and retain documents as appropriate; prepare forms, reports, correspondence, motions, orders, letters, notices, petitions, legal briefs, trial summaries, and departmental reports; and maintain computerized or hardcopy 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 topics; prepare briefs, motions and responses; write case summaries; draft jury charges; and make 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.