Criminal Defense Attorney

Location: Jonesboro, GA (with flexibility for remote work when appropriate)

Job Overview

A law firm seeks a dedicated and passionate Criminal Defense Staff Attorney to join its legal team, representing indigent clients facing misdemeanor criminal charges. Based in the firm’s Jonesboro office (with additional responsibilities in McDonough), this role offers valuable hands-on courtroom experience, including arraignments, pretrial motions, and trials.

With the increasing shift of certain court appearances to virtual platforms, this position provides flexibility to work remotely when feasible. This is an excellent opportunity for attorneys eager to gain substantial trial experience while working within a supportive, knowledgeable team of legal professionals.

Duties

• Represent clients in misdemeanor criminal matters from initial appearance through trial and resolution.
• Handle all phases of case management, including client interviews, legal research, discovery, motion practice, negotiations, and trial preparation.
• Attend and advocate at arraignments, pretrial hearings, motion hearings, and trials.
• Communicate regularly with clients to ensure they understand their rights, case status, and available legal options.
• Draft clear and persuasive legal documents, including motions, briefs, and case summaries.
• Collaborate with fellow attorneys to develop defense strategies and share knowledge across cases.
• Adapt to remote court appearances and virtual client meetings when necessary.

Requirements

• Experience representing clients in criminal matters, preferably with exposure to indigent defense or public defender work.
• Strong courtroom advocacy skills, with comfort handling hearings, motions, and trials.
• Excellent legal writing and research abilities.
• Effective time management and organizational skills, particularly in managing a high-volume caseload.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Flexibility to work both in-office and remotely, as court requirements allow.

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Active and in-good-standing membership with the State Bar of Georgia.

Skills

• Criminal law litigation and case analysis.
• Legal research and persuasive writing.
• Courtroom presentation and oral advocacy.
• Client communication and counseling.
• Case strategy development.
• Adaptability to virtual proceedings and remote work technologies.
• Collaboration with team members to enhance case strategies.

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Flexible scheduling options.
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
• Professional development and continuing legal education assistance.
• Supportive team environment focused on learning and growth.