Zachary Simonetti
Asheville
Summary
Attorney with extensive experience as a criminal defense attorney, adept in trial litigation and case management. Proven track record of successfully representing clients in high-stakes criminal cases, including jury trials. Skilled in legal research and motion drafting, with a strong commitment to client advocacy and achieving favorable outcomes.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
SENIOR STAFF ATTORNEY
BROOKLYN DEFENDER SERVICES
Brooklyn
03.2022 - 03.2026
- Represented clients in criminal cases in Kings County from initial arraignment to trial or dismissal.
- Managed caseload of 80 to 120 criminal cases, ranging from traffic infractions to violent felonies.
- Conducted daily court appearances, client conferences, and discovery reviews for case progress.
- Served as first chair for two jury trials and numerous pre-trial suppression hearings.
STAFF ATTORNEY
NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL AID SOCIETY
Hempstead
09.2019 - 03.2022
- Represented clients in misdemeanor and unindicted felony matters, ensuring robust defense strategies.
- Managed a caseload of 70 to 100 cases, specializing in domestic violence and diversion courtrooms.
- Conducted pre-trial suppression hearings, effectively representing clients in complex legal proceedings.
LEGAL FELLOW
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS
Washington
08.2018 - 06.2019
- Supported attorneys with research for state and federal criminal cases.
- Authored articles on cutting-edge privacy issues impacting digital age defense.
- Developed toolkits to aid lawyers in contesting government surveillance.
- Drafted motions challenging unconstitutional searches of electronic devices.
Student Attorney
Tulane Law School Juvenile Defense Clinic
New Orleans
08.2017 - 05.2018
- Represented clients in juvenile court hearings and legal proceedings.
- Conducted legal research to support case strategies and arguments.
- Provided legal advice and counseling to clients and their families.
Law Clerk
Orleans Public Defenders
New Orleans
05.2017 - 08.2017
- Researched case law to support defense strategies for clients.
- Assisted attorneys in preparing for trials and client meetings.
- Conducted client interviews to obtain necessary background information for cases.
Education
Juris Doctor -
Tulane University School of Law
New Orleans, LA05-2018
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Furman University
Greenville05-2015
Skills
- Legal research
- Trial litigation
- Case management
- Motion drafting
- Discovery review
- Criminal law knowledge
Bar Registration
New York, Licensed, 11/01/19, Application submitted to waive into North Carolina Bar.
Timeline
SENIOR STAFF ATTORNEY
BROOKLYN DEFENDER SERVICES
03.2022 - 03.2026
STAFF ATTORNEY
NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL AID SOCIETY
09.2019 - 03.2022
LEGAL FELLOW
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS
08.2018 - 06.2019
Student Attorney
Tulane Law School Juvenile Defense Clinic
08.2017 - 05.2018
Law Clerk
Orleans Public Defenders
05.2017 - 08.2017
Juris Doctor -
Tulane University School of Law
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Furman University