Assistant Public Defender First Judicial District Public Defender's Office Serving Carter, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington Counties, Tennessee Experienced attorneys, judicial law clerks, prosecutors, military JAG attorneys, and newly licensed attorneys with exceptional promise are all encouraged to apply. The Office of the District Public Defender for Tennessee's First Judicial District is seeking an exceptional attorney to join our team. This opportunity arises because one of our most respected and longest-serving attorneys will retire after a distinguished career of public service. His retirement creates an opportunity for the next generation of advocates to join an office committed to excellence, teamwork, and client-centered representation. We are not simply looking to fill an opening—we are looking for the right person. Depending on the qualifications and experience of the successful applicant, this position may involve representation in either General Sessions Court or Criminal Court. Internal assignments will be based upon the needs of the office and our commitment to placing attorneys where they can best serve our clients while continuing to grow professionally. Whether you are an experienced litigator or an attorney looking to build a career in criminal defense, we are looking for someone who shares our commitment to excellence, integrity, teamwork, and client-centered representation. Who We Are The First Judicial District Public Defender's Office represents indigent clients throughout Northeast Tennessee in matters ranging from misdemeanors to the most serious felony offenses. We believe every client deserves an attorney who is prepared, ethical, compassionate, and committed to providing outstanding representation. Our attorneys advocate vigorously in the courtroom while recognizing that lasting outcomes often require understanding the challenges that brought a client into the criminal justice system. Our office embraces a collaborative approach to representation. Attorneys work closely with experienced legal assistants, investigators, and an embedded forensic social worker to ensure clients receive not only exceptional legal representation but, when appropriate, assistance accessing treatment, housing, benefits, mental health services, substance use treatment, and other community resources that help address underlying needs, strengthen families, and reduce future involvement with the criminal justice system. We believe that effective public defense protects constitutional rights while helping build safer, healthier communities.

Responsibilities may include:

• Representing clients in General Sessions Court and/or Criminal Court.
• Managing a diverse criminal defense caseload from appointment through disposition or trial.
• Meeting regularly with clients to provide legal advice and develop case strategy.
• Conducting legal research and preparing motions, briefs, and other pleadings.
• Negotiating with prosecutors and advocating for favorable outcomes.
• Litigating suppression issues, evidentiary matters, sentencing hearings, and other contested proceedings.
• Conducting bench and jury trials.
• Collaborating with legal assistants, investigators, and our forensic social worker to provide comprehensive client representation.
• Maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and client service.

Qualifications Required:

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in Tennessee, or eligible for admission to the Tennessee Bar.
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills.
• Excellent judgment, professionalism, and integrity.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to providing high-quality representation to indigent clients.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred:

• Experience in criminal law, litigation, judicial clerkships, or other courtroom advocacy.
• Jury trial experience.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations.
• Demonstrated commitment to public service.
• Spanish language proficiency is welcomed but not required.

What We Value We are less concerned with how many years you have practiced than with the qualities you bring to the profession.

We value attorneys who:

• Prepare thoroughly.
• Think critically and solve problems creatively.
• Exercise sound judgment.
• Communicate effectively with clients, courts, and colleagues.
• Treat every client with dignity and respect.
• Welcome mentorship while continually striving to improve.
• Work collaboratively and support their teammates.
• Approach every case with professionalism and integrity.
• Believe that preparation, compassion, and excellence are complementary values. Benefits In addition to the opportunity to perform meaningful work that makes a real difference in the lives of clients and our communities, this position offers:
• Competitive salary based upon qualifications and experience in accordance with Tennessee State compensation policies.
• Comprehensive State of Tennessee benefits package, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and state holidays.
• Continuing legal education and professional development opportunities.
• Meaningful courtroom and litigation experience.
• Mentorship from experienced trial attorneys.
• A collaborative office culture where attorneys are supported by experienced legal assistants, investigators, and a forensic social worker.
• Opportunities to develop professionally while helping shape the future of public defense in Northeast Tennessee.

Why Northeast Tennessee? The First Judicial District offers an exceptional quality of life with affordable communities, outstanding schools, abundant outdoor recreation, and easy access to the Appalachian Mountains. Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, music, or a vibrant downtown community, Northeast Tennessee offers an outstanding place to build both a career and a life. How to Apply Please submit the following to melanie.sellers@tnpd.

org:

• Cover letter
• Résumé
• Writing sample
• Unofficial law school transcript
• Three professional references Applications will be reviewed as they are received and will remain open until the position is filled.

Pay:

$71,940.00 - $188,508.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person