Assistant Public Defender (First Chair) – Capital Defense

About the role

The State of Georgia is seeking an experienced attorney to serve as a Capital Defender in the Georgia Capital Defender Division. This senior position focuses on representing indigent defendants in death‑penalty cases and requires a strong foundation in capital‑defense litigation.

Key responsibilities

• Lead counsel in homicide and capital cases, managing all phases of trial.
• Develop case strategies, conduct investigations, and handle pre‑trial motions.
• Present evidence and arguments at trial, working closely with mitigation specialists and investigators.
• Manage post‑conviction proceedings in capital cases as needed.
• Perform additional duties assigned by the division.

Required profile

• Active member in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia for at least five years.
• Substantial experience as first chair in homicide trials and handling capital cases.
• Juris Doctorate and a Georgia law license, or eligibility to obtain one within one year of hiring.
• Three years of relevant legal experience or equivalent lower‑level attorney experience.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive benefits package tailored to various career stages.
• Opportunity to impact the lives of Georgia’s citizens through public service.
• Access to specialized training in capital‑defense litigation.