Davidson County-Metro Nashville (Tn) Nashville , TN 37201
Posted 7 days ago
Position Description
The Nashville Defenders seek to provide zealous representation to our clients, and to fight for equal justice for the indigent accused in Nashville, TN. We represent adults accused of crimes and children charged with delinquency offenses in Davidson County who cannot afford to hire a lawyer. Cases range from the lowest level misdemeanor to capital murder cases. Guiding principles of the Office are that each client is entitled to effective representation; to the best outcome possible for their case, as determined by the client; and to be treated with dignity and respect. Our attorneys, investigators, social workers and support staff take great pride in providing a high level of service.
Attorneys in the appellate division represent clients on direct appeal in the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals and the Tennessee Supreme Court. Effective, client-centered appellate advocacy is a crucial component of the Office's mission, helping ensure that each client receives a fair trial or hearing and the best possible outcome in each case. Attorneys in this division carry an exclusively appellate caseload, representing clients who have faced an adverse outcome following a trial, sentencing hearing, probation revocation hearing, or other final judgment in a trial court. Attorneys work closely with clients and trial counsel, review trial court records, and conduct legal research to identify and develop appellate issues. Additionally, attorneys in the appellate division dedicate time to consult with office attorneys on legal and strategic issues that arise in trial court matters, help with research questions, and keep current with cases, statutes, and rules.
Typical Duties
Writing appellate briefs and arguing cases in the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals and the Tennessee Supreme Court.
Communicating regularly and reliably with clients throughout the appellate process.
Assisting clients as needed with matters beyond the appeal, such as sentence calculation errors.
Working with the trial court clerk and court reporters to ensure a complete and accurate appellate record.
Assisting trial attorneys with legal research and arguments.
Reviewing new case law and legislation and keeping office attorneys advised of legal developments relevant to our clients.
Providing informal advice to office attorneys upon request concerning ethical issues based upon the Rules of Professional Conduct.
Other tasks and responsibilities as they arise.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED/SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Reports to Public Defender or designee, who is consulted on complex or unusual matters.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work involves minimal risks or discomforts associated with an office setting, with occasional travel to courtrooms, detention centers, and prisons.
Minimum Qualifications
Doctor of Jurisprudence
Candidates with accreditations earned in a foreign institute are encouraged to apply.
LICENSES REQUIRED
Licensed to practice Law in the State of Tennessee or licensed to practice law in another state AND application to practice law in the State of Tennessee pending.
Valid driver's license with access to reliable transportation, current vehicle insurance with liability coverage that meets all the requirements of applicable state law and willingness to travel as needed.
Note: Per Metro Ordinance No. SO94-1078. All employees of the Metropolitan Government shall be residents of the State of Tennessee or become residents of the state within six (6) months of employment as a prerequisite to employment with the Metropolitan Government
We are an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.
Metro Nashville Government respects the religious beliefs and practices of all employees and will make, on request, an accommodation for such observances when a reasonable accommodation is available that does not create an undue hardship on business operations.
Requests for ADA accommodation for the recruitment process should be directed to Courtney Bonner at (615) 862-5565.
Preferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Demonstrated commitment to client-centered representation of people who are indigent and convicted of crimes.
Two or more years of relevant legal experience, preferably in a criminal law setting that has required legal research and writing.
Ability to analyze cases, identify and develop legal issues, perform thorough legal research, and frame written and oral arguments effectively.
Ability to manage cases with large records and/or complex legal issues.
Ability to observe strict filing deadlines.
Ability to work both collaboratively and independently.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships
Trial experience preferred.
Davidson County-Metro Nashville (Tn)