Term Research and Writing Attorney, Capital Habeas Unit (CHU) - Telework

Tennessee Middle Federal Public Defender

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Job Description

Overview of the Position 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. Position Description 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

Requirements

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 Employee Benefits Benefits include health and life insurance, retirement benefits, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan. For details on benefits, visit Judiciary Benefits. Salary is payable by direct deposit. Application Info 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 HR_TNM@FD.ORG . Multiple positions will be filled from this job posting.

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