Criminal Defense Attorney

Job Title: Criminal Defense Attorney

Location: Columbia, SC

Job Type: Onsite, Full-Time

About the Job:

We are seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to join a growing legal team in Columbia, South Carolina. This role focuses on Post-Conviction Relief (PCR) matters and criminal appellate practice, making it an excellent opportunity for an attorney with strong litigation, legal research, and appellate advocacy experience. The ideal candidate will independently manage a high-volume caseload while collaborating with attorneys and legal support staff to deliver exceptional client representation.

Key Responsibilities:

Handle Post-Conviction Relief (PCR) cases, including case evaluation, investigations, petition drafting, and court appearances.

Manage criminal appeals, including legal research, appellate brief writing, and oral argument preparation.

Review trial records, transcripts, and evidentiary materials to identify constitutional and procedural issues.

Draft motions, memoranda, appellate briefs, petitions, and other legal filings.

Represent clients in South Carolina state courts and other required legal proceedings.

Communicate with clients regarding legal strategy, case updates, and expected outcomes.

Collaborate with trial attorneys on post-trial strategy and appellate preservation issues.

Maintain accurate case files while ensuring compliance with all court deadlines.

Required Qualifications:

Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.

Active license to practice law in South Carolina, in good standing.

Minimum 3+ years of Criminal Defense experience.

Strong experience handling Post-Conviction Relief (PCR) matters (required).

Appellate litigation experience, including appellate brief writing and record review (preferred).

Excellent legal research, analytical, and persuasive writing skills.

Strong courtroom advocacy and oral communication skills.

Ability to independently manage a high-volume caseload and meet strict deadlines.

Strong client relationship and case management abilities.

Preferred Skills:

Criminal Defense Litigation

Post-Conviction Relief (PCR)

Criminal Appeals

Appellate Brief Writing

Legal Research & Writing

Motion Practice

Constitutional Law

Trial Record Review

Courtroom Advocacy

Client Counseling

Case Strategy Development

Oral Argument Preparation

Time Management

Attention to Detail