Assistant Public Defender

Ogeechee Judicial Circuit GA; Statesboro (GA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Assistant Public Defender in Statesboro, GA, represents clients in criminal cases from initial appearance through resolution, including arraignments, hearings, plea negotiations, trials, and sentencing. You will meet with clients, review files, and coordinate with investigators and prosecutors to build strong defenses.

This on-site role requires a JD from an accredited law school, active Georgia Bar membership, and a commitment to indigent defense, ethical advocacy, and public service.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in Law and Criminal Law.
• Experience in Criminal Defense, including client advocacy and trial preparation.
• Familiarity with Courts and courtroom procedures, including hearings, motions, and trial practice.
• Skills in Legal Research, drafting pleadings, and organizing case files.

Responsibilities

• Meeting with clients, reviewing case files, and developing case strategies.
• Conducting legal research and preparing motions and court filings.
• Regular court appearances and collaboration with investigators and support staff.
• Communicating with prosecutors, law enforcement, and community resources; managing a diverse caseload.

Skills

Criminal Law

Legal Research

Client Advocacy

Courtroom Procedures

Pleadings Drafting

Juris Doctor (JD)

Bar Admission (Georgia)

Public Defense Experience

Trial Preparation

Ethical Judgment

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

Company Description

Ogeechee Judicial Circuit GA is a public law practice serving the Statesboro, Georgia community and surrounding areas. The office handles a wide range of criminal matters within the circuit’s courts, providing legal representation and access to justice for individuals who cannot afford private counsel. As part of Georgia’s court system, the circuit offers legal professionals the opportunity to work closely with judges, court staff, and community stakeholders. Team members can expect a collaborative environment focused on ethical advocacy, public service, and professional development. The office’s work is rooted in a commitment to upholding constitutional rights and ensuring fair treatment for all defendants.

Role Description

The Assistant Public Defender is a full-time, on-site role based in Statesboro, GA. This position is responsible for representing clients in criminal cases from initial appearance through resolution, including arraignments, motion hearings, plea negotiations, trials, and sentencing. Daily tasks include meeting with clients, reviewing case files, conducting legal research, developing case strategies, and preparing motions and other court filings. The role involves regular court appearances, collaboration with investigators and support staff, and communication with prosecutors, law enforcement, and community resources. The Assistant Public Defender is expected to manage a diverse caseload, maintain accurate documentation, and provide client-centered counsel that protects constitutional rights and promotes fair outcomes.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in Law and Criminal Law, with the ability to interpret statutes, case law, and procedural rules.
• Experience or demonstrated interest in Criminal Defense, including client advocacy and trial preparation.
• Familiarity with Courts and courtroom procedures, including hearings, motions, and trial practice.
• Skills in Legal Assistance, such as legal research, drafting pleadings, and organizing case files.
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active membership (or eligibility for membership) in the State Bar of Georgia.
• Excellent written and oral advocacy skills, including the ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly to clients and the court.
• Strong ethical judgment, professionalism, and commitment to public service and indigent defense.
• Ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously, work under court-imposed deadlines, and collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team.
• Prior experience in criminal practice, internships or clerkships in public defense or prosecution, or relevant clinical programs is beneficial.