Assistant Federal Public Defender Trial

Federal Public Defender, Western District of Texas; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Life insurance

Retirement benefits

Thrift Savings Plan

Job summary

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Texas is seeking an assistant federal public defender for the San Antonio office. This role involves representing clients charged with federal crimes, developing litigation strategies, and supervising investigative teams. A graduate of an accredited law school and admission to a state bar are essential. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package and emphasizes strong advocacy skills.

Preferred qualifications include federal criminal trial experience and Spanish fluency. The Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer.

Qualifications

• Admitted to practice before a state bar, preferably Texas.
• Licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas.
• Strong reputation for integrity.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients charged with federal criminal offenses.
• Develop litigation strategies and draft pleadings.
• Supervise teams of investigators and paralegals.

Skills

Strong writing skills

Oral advocacy skills

Criminal defense practice

Effective communication

Team-oriented

Spanish-language fluency

Education

Graduate of an accredited law school

Job description

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Texas is accepting applications for an assistant federal public defender to be stationed in the San Antonio office. The Federal Public Defender operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. 3006A, to provide defense services in federal criminal cases and related matters by appointment from the court to individuals unable to afford counsel.

Requirements

An Assistant Federal Public Defender must be (1) a graduate of an accredited law school; (2) admitted to practice before a state bar, but a Texas bar license is strongly preferred; and (3) licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas prior to entry on duty. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including but not limited to an FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check.

Duties

An Assistant Federal Public Defender will represent clients charged with federal criminal offenses and clients involved in other matters covered under the Criminal Justice Act. Regular responsibilities include working with clients; digesting large case files and investigative materials; developing litigation strategies; drafting pleadings; conducting evidentiary hearings and trials; working with experts and other witnesses; and supervising teams of investigators, mitigation specialists, paralegals, and legal assistants. The position requires travel for investigation, litigation, and training, and may involve foreign travel. Federal Public Defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.

Selection Criteria

The successful applicant will have strong writing and oral advocacy skills, an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused people, and a reputation for integrity. Applicants must also possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court and agency personnel as part of their employment. Finally, applicants must also be team-oriented and possess skills for collaboration, strategic litigation, compassionate representation, and unique approaches to the issues affecting our clients. Three to five years of federal criminal trial experience is preferred. Spanish-language fluency is preferred.

Salary and Benefits

The salary of an Assistant Federal Public Defender is commensurate with that of an assistant U.S. attorney with similar qualifications and experience. The position is in the excepted service and does not carry the tenure rights of the competitive Civil Service. The position offers federal government employment benefits, including health and life insurance, retirement, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).

The Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer.