Attorney 3 – Public Defender (Criminal Defense)

About the role

The Georgia Public Defender Council is seeking an Attorney 3 to join its Specialized Unit Division in the Central Office. This full‑time position involves handling serious criminal cases, including those that may carry life‑sentence penalties, and requires travel throughout the metro area.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate daily work of assigned staff while representing clients at all court stages, from arraignments to appeals.
• Conduct trial work as first chair, including jury selection, opening/closing statements, evidence presentation, and witness examination.
• Prepare and argue motions, negotiate plea offers, and secure mitigating evidence for sentencing.
• Review discovery, interview clients and witnesses, subpoena and prepare expert witnesses, and develop defense theories and case strategies.
• Maintain accurate case files, logs, and reports; research case law and draft briefs, motions, and trial summaries.

Required profile

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited institution and a current Georgia State Bar membership in good standing.
• Minimum three years of criminal defense experience, with proven trial experience, especially handling SB440 cases.
• Strong commitment to indigent defense and high‑quality legal representation.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to lead a team.