ABOUT CHAPTER 154 (OPT-IN) & THIS ROLE:
In July 2026, the State of Tennessee received certification under Chapter 154 ("Opt-In"), a specialized statutory framework that significantly alters federal habeas corpus procedure in capital cases. Opt-In imposes shortened statutes of limitations, strengthens procedural default doctrines, curtails execution stays, and requires fast track disposition of all claims.
The successful candidate will serve as Opt-In Litigation Counsel, handling a dedicated
caseload affected by Chapter 154. This role involves complex constitutional and statutory challenges to the applicability and operation of Chapter 154, detailed investigation and review of historical state post-conviction appointment mechanisms, and direction of complex, expedited habeas investigation and litigation.
DUTIES:
• Serve as Opt-In Research and Writing Counsel for capital clients, directing fact investigation and litigating issues concerning
the threshold applicability, retroactivity, and constitutionality of Chapter 154.
• Re-investigate the state post-conviction mechanism to develop factual records regarding the appointment and competency
of state post-conviction counsel, their compensation, and available litigation expenses under 28 U.S.C. § 2261.
• Prepare complex, fact- and law-intensive pleadings, emergency stay applications, and district and circuit court briefs under
accelerated statutory deadlines.
• Work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including co-counsel, paralegals, investigators, mitigation specialists, and experts.
• Travel as required and work outside normal business hours and on weekends as required by litigation schedule.
Candidates must be admitted to the practice of law and eligible for admission to the federal bar and the bar of the State of Tennessee. The ideal candidate will have significant capital litigation experience in trial, direct appeal, state post-conviction, or federal habeas corpus proceedings, along with demonstrated familiarity with complex statutory and constitutional interpretation.
Experience advocating handling high-stakes, time-sensitive litigation is strongly preferred. This is an advanced position requiring an experienced advocate who can assume substantial responsibility immediately.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
• Exceptional legal writing and persuasive oral advocacy skills, with the ability to synthesize complex statutory and
constitutional frameworks clearly.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and strong technical skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively as part
of a multidisciplinary team.
• A deep commitment to the dignity and humanity of indigent clients, as well as personal integrity.
• Strong computer proficiency, including familiarity with Windows and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
To apply for this specialized term position, please email a letter of interest, resume, and three references in a single combined PDF document with the subject line “Term R&W - Opt-In CHU” to Federal Public Defender Dumaka Shabazz at [email protected].
Incomplete applications will not be considered. The position is open until filled. No phone calls, please. Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
NLADA Mutual Insurance Co., RRG
