Attorney 2

Public Defender Council, Georgia•Augusta, GA

10d

About The Position

The Augusta Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is hiring an Assistant Public Defender 2 to provide competent and zealous representation and advocacy to indigent clients in Juvenile Court. The role emphasizes a demonstrated commitment to indigent defense. Applicants must be licensed to practice law in Georgia and be a current member in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia, subject to the stated minimum-qualification alternatives. Prior experience representing children in criminal or civil proceedings is preferred. The position serves at the pleasure of the Executive Director and performs other related duties as required. The attorney handles cases from initial appearances through trial, disposition, post-adjudication or post-conviction proceedings, and appeals. Work includes case investigation and research, courtroom advocacy, negotiation, client counseling, preparation of legal documents, and coordination with court personnel, clients, witnesses, experts, and other participants.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university and a license to practice law in 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, together with one year of relevant legal experience; alternatively, one year of experience at the lower-level Attorney 1 (LEP020).
One or more years of experience as a practicing attorney.
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.
Proficiency in performing the essential duties and responsibilities.
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.
Meet the advertised minimum qualifications and any other qualifications specific to the job responsibilities.

Nice To Haves

Three or more years of experience practicing in Juvenile/Youth Court as well as SB440 in Superior Court.
Prior experience representing children in criminal or civil proceedings.
Demonstrated commitment to indigent defense.

Responsibilities

Attend scheduled court appearances; create and maintain case files and related data and notes; 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 or post-conviction hearings, appeals, and related proceedings.
Negotiate on clients' behalf, 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 in and out of custody; request and inspect records and evidence; review criminal histories; prepare graphics and exhibits; investigate alternative explanations; follow up on 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, procure and interview them, assess the need for psychological or psychiatric evaluations, anticipate legal issues, and develop defense theories and case strategies.
Secure and argue mitigating evidence; negotiate resolutions with assistant district attorneys; and advise clients about accepting or rejecting plea offers.
Receive and 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.
Research relevant case law and other pertinent terms, procedures, or scientific topics; prepare briefs, motions, responses, case summaries, jury charges, and 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; stay current on legal changes; and participate in professional organizations.
Communicate with prosecuting attorneys, judges, investigators, legal support staff, witnesses, experts, translators, client friends and family, probation officers, supervisors, government officials, other employees, and the public to coordinate work, exchange information, provide legal counsel or interpretation, and resolve problems.
Perform other related duties as required.