The OPCD is an independent agency of the Tennessee state government. The agency represents people sentenced to death in Tennessee and provides non-case-specific assistance and educational resources to appointed counsel in capital cases. Direct representation focuses on the investigation and presentation of collateral claims in state courts, primarily in post-conviction proceedings. The OPCD handles cases throughout Tennessee and travel is required. Please see www.tnpcdo.net for further details.
Assistant post-conviction defenders work on teams with investigators and paralegals under the direction of supervising attorneys to develop both guilt/innocence and sentencing claims on behalf of the clients. The assistant defenders’ primary duties include developing and maintaining close working relationships with clients; review and analysis of voluminous records; identification of potential legal claims and investigative needs; oversight of investigation and record collection; consultation with experts; drafting of extensive legal pleadings; presentation of evidence at evidentiary hearings and oral arguments in appellate courts.
Minimum Qualifications:
Demonstrated commitment to indigent criminal defense or public interest
Strong writing skills
Familiarity with mental health, trauma, and racial justice issues
Ability to collaborate closely with others in a team setting
Ability to work and communicate with people from a variety of cultural backgrounds
Flexibility to work evenings and weekends
Current Tennessee Bar license or ability to obtain Tennessee licensure within one year of accepting the position
A valid driver’s license
Preferred Qualifications:
Prior experience in at least one of the following areas:
Capital defense
Trial or appellate criminal defense
Complex civil litigation
Judicial clerkship
Interested candidates should send: 1) a cover letter discussing their interest in capital defense work and qualifications for the attorney position; 2) a resume; 3) three professional references; and 4) a writing sample to [email protected]. Application deadline is April 8, 2019. Applications will be reviewed on rolling basis.