Criminal Defense Attorney
On-siteChattanooga, Tennessee, United States
Job Summary
Conduct criminal legal practice by handling cases from initial client meetings through local and federal court appearances, including arraignments, pretrial conferences, and jury trials. Manage case development, negotiate settlements, and draft legal pleadings while performing research to formulate strategy. Review intake details to determine case viability, quote pricing, and create contracts, then collaborate with support staff to provide ongoing client updates. Document case progress via Lead Docket and Filevine Tasks to ensure accurate file maintenance. This role supports the Criminal Division of Garza Law Firm, focusing on fair and unbiased advocacy for clients facing misdemeanors to felonies.
Required Qualifications
- Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree
- admission to the Tennessee State Bar
- good standing with the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility
- Proficient with Microsoft 365 Suite applications
- Familiarity with various software and other systems used for case and client management (e.g. Filevine, Vine Sign, Law Pay, Lead Docket, DocGen, etc.)
- 1-3 years of previous criminal law experience
- Must possess a Juris Doctoral degree and be licensed to practice law in the State of Tennessee and be in good standing
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills used in a professional setting
- Has experience quoting and selling clients on the value they will receive, obtaining financial deposits, and handling contractual agreements
- Professionally represents Garza Law Firm during all interactions with the public
- Can handle large case volumes of work in a high-paced work environment
- Periodic travel to various counties for legal hearings
- Ensure Accountability: Takes responsibility for their work and the firm's performance. Owns commitments and shows a willingness to answer for their actions without being defensive or shifting blame.
- Client Focus: Intentionally seeks to understand Client needs. Proactively identifies opportunities to serve or create a benefit to the Client. Looks to exceed Client expectations by creating delight. Establishes and maintains effective Client relationships.
- Situational Adaptability: Rebounds from setbacks vs. emotionally responding with drama. Is confident under pressure. Handles and manages change or crises effectively. Maintains a positive attitude despite adversity. Grows from hardships and negative experiences. Understands how to be effective with various audiences.
- Action Oriented: Readily takes action on challenges, without unnecessary delay. Identifies and seizes new opportunities. Displays a can-do attitude in good and bad times. Steps up to handle tough issues without avoidance or creating isolation for any party involved.
Desired Qualifications
- 1-3 years of experience working in a small to medium law firm
- 1-3 years of previous criminal hearings and/or trial experience
- Conversational Spanish fluency as a second language
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