Assistant Federal Public Defender — Federal Litigator

National Legal Aid & Defender Association; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Pennsylvania is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Federal Public Defender (AFPD). This role may be based in Pittsburgh or in branch offices in Erie or Johnstown.

The AFPD will represent clients charged with federal offenses under the Criminal Justice Act, handling complex research, motions, and litigation across diverse caseloads, including drug, fraud, immigration, firearms, and internet-related offenses.

Responsibilities

• Working with clients in federal criminal cases and related matters.
• Digesting large case files and investigative materials.
• Developing litigation strategies, including negotiation and mitigation.
• Researching and drafting motions and other filings.
• Conducting evidentiary hearings and trials, including jury trials and sentencing hearings.
• Leading teams of investigators, mitigation specialists, paralegals, and legal assistants.

Job description

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Pennsylvania is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Federal Public Defender (AFPD). This role may be based in Pittsburgh or in branch offices in Erie or Johnstown.

The AFPD will represent clients charged with federal offenses under the Criminal Justice Act, handling complex research, motions, and litigation across diverse caseloads, including drug, fraud, immigration, firearms, and internet-related offenses.