Position Information

SALARY:  Depends on Qualifications
 
JOB TYPE:  Full-time, Non-Civil Service
 
ISSUE DATE: 02/15/22
 
CLOSING DATE:   03/08/22 11:59 PM Central
 
 
The Nashville Defenders seek to provide zealous representation to our clients, and to fight for equal justice for the indigent accused in Nashville, TN. Our office represents 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. Attorneys in the juvenile division also handle some cases as Guardian ad Litem for children. 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.
 
The Office is seeking to hire an attorney to fill the position of Assistant Public Defender; this posting is for an attorney position with the juvenile division of the office. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to serving marginalized persons and communities and the ability to recognize and respect the human dignity of every person.
 
Typical duties

• Representing Juvenile clients in Juvenile Court on both delinquency and Guardian ad Litem cases.
• Working collaboratively with other defense team members, including investigators, social workers, and legal assistants.
• Familiar with the principles of client-centered representation, and willing to practice in that model.

 
 
SUPERVISION EXERCISED/SUPERVISION RECEIVED
 
Receives supervision from Juvenile Court Team Leader and reports to Public Defender or designee, who is consulted on complex or usual matters.
 
WORKING CONDITIONS
 
Work involves moderate risks or discomforts associated with a courthouse or juvenile detention, which require special safety precautions, e.g., working in crowded conditions, working around children with behavioral challenges or those charged with delinquency offenses. Employees may be required to use protective clothing or gear.  Work requires travel, mainly throughout Davidson County.
 
Requires substantial physical exertion such as long periods of standing, walking, climbing, bending, stooping, stretching, or similar activities.

Minimum Qualifications
 

• Doctor of Jurisprudence
• three or more years of professional legal experience

 



Candidates with accreditations earned in a foreign institute are encouraged to apply.
 
LICENSES REQUIRED
 

• licensed to practice law in Tennessee or licensed to practice law in another state AND capable of becoming licensed in the State of Tennessee within six months.
• 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.
 
Preferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
 

• Significant courtroom and trial experience
• Experience as a public defender or in indigent criminal defense
• Prior experience representing juvenile clients

 
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  Annette Crutchfield at 615-880-3711 or AnnetteCrutchfield@jisnashville.gov 
 
HOW TO APPLY
Resumes and cover letters will ONLY be accepted via e-mail and should be sent to 
PDApplicants@jisnashville.gov.