Attorney 1

Public Defender Council, Georgia•Griffin, GA

13d

About The Position

The Griffin Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is seeking an Assistant Public Defender 1 for Spalding County. The attorney provides competent and zealous legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients in criminal cases in Superior Court. The role involves representing clients 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. Candidates must have a Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university and be licensed to practice law in Georgia, or meet the stated eligibility pathway for obtaining a Georgia law license. Applicants should 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.
License to practice law in the State of Georgia, or eligibility to sit for the next Georgia Bar examination followed by passing the examination and obtaining Georgia licensure within one year of hiring, or reciprocity; a law license must be obtained. 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, and commit to action 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; create, update, and close case files; maintain case data and activity records; review calendars; and coordinate with court administration, clients, witnesses, experts, and others.
Represent clients in court at various stages of proceedings, including arraignments, preliminary and pretrial hearings, probation and sentencing, post-adjudication or post-conviction hearings, appeals, and related proceedings.
Negotiate on behalf of clients; prepare and argue motions; conduct jury selection; deliver 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; prepare and process 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 on whether to accept or reject plea offers.
Research relevant case law and other relevant procedures or scientific terms; 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, investigative and judicial processes, 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.