Assistant Federal Public Defender - Trial Attorney

United States Courts; Las Cruces (NM); Hybrid; USD 77,000 - 197,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision, and life ins.

Paid leave and holidays

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Telework option 1 day per week

Job summary

New Mexico Federal Public Defender in Las Cruces is seeking an Assistant Federal Public Defender (Trial Attorney) to represent clients in federal criminal proceedings from investigation through trial and sentencing. The role emphasizes zealous advocacy, collaboration with a diverse team, and client-centered services.

The office values diversity and inclusion, and offers a comprehensive benefits package, potential telework one day per week, and opportunities for professional growth within the

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Admission and good standing before the highest court of a state.
• License to practice in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico.
• Become a member of the New Mexico State Bar within one year of start date.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in all stages of federal criminal proceedings, including trial and sentencing.
• Develop litigation strategies and prepare motions, pleadings, and briefs.
• Appear in court to advocate for clients and maintain regular communication with clients, experts, family and witnesses.
• Collaborate with colleagues in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Skills

Advocacy skills

Interpersonal and organizational

Driver's license

Education

J.D. from an accredited law school

Bar admission/licensure (NM)

U.S. District Court NM license

Bar membership within 1 year

Job description

Job Details for Assistant Federal Public Defender - Trial Attorney

Court Name/Organization New Mexico Federal Public Defender

Overview of the Position The Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of New Mexico is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Federal Public Defender (Trial Attorney) in our Las Cruces office. The mission of our office is to provide high quality, client-centered representation to people charged with federal crimes in New Mexico. We fight for the Sixth Amendment Right to Counsel by providing zealous and effective representation to every client.We are a team of attorneys, investigators, social workers, paralegals, interpreters, and administrative professionals committed to client-centered advocacy. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workforce and strive to maintain a respectful, collaborative, and supportive office culture.

Duties and Responsibilities
As a Trial Attorney, you will represent clients in all stages of federal criminal proceedings, including trial, and sentencing. The role involves managing a diverse caseload with complex legal and factual issues, developing litigation strategies, and preparing motions, pleadings, and briefs. You will appear in court to advocate on behalf of clients, conduct legal research and investigations, and maintain regular communication with clients, experts, family members, and witnesses. Collaboration is key, and you will work closely with colleagues in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Admission and good standing before the highest court of a state
• License to practice in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico (or ability to obtain it promptly upon hire)
• Become a member of the New Mexico State Bar within one year of start date
• Excellent oral and written advocacy skills
• Strong interpersonal and organizational abilities
• Demonstrated commitment to the defense of underserved and marginalized communities
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as needed for casework, training, and investigations

Preferred Qualifications
These qualifications are not required to be considered for this role but are highly valued:

• Three years of criminal defense trial experience
• Experience working with people from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences

Employee Benefits

This is a full-time, at-will position within the federal judiciary. The salary range is $76,748 to $197,100, based on experience and qualifications. The position includes a comprehensive benefits package, featuring health, dental, vision, and life insurance; 13 to 26 days of annual leave depending on years of service; 13 days of sick leave per year; and 12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service. Employees also receive 11 paid federal holidays, participate in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), and may contribute to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with up to 5 percent government matching. The position is eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and includes access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), credit for prior federal service, and regular continuing legal education opportunities. A one day per week telework option may be available depending on caseload, and employees benefit from access to wellness resources and programming.

Conditions of Employment
Employment is subject to a background check, including fingerprinting. This position is part of the excepted service and does not carry Civil Service tenure. U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the U.S. and receive compensation as a federal employee is required. Salary is paid via direct deposit.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Our office values diversity and is committed to equity and inclusion. We aspire to embody values of mutual respect, collaboration, openness, and humility that honor the people we represent. Our representation is better when members of the defense team and staff members have diverse backgrounds and experiences. In our hiring, we seek individuals who share these values. We embrace the unique backgrounds, social identities, and lived experiences our employees bring to our office. We are interested in applicants’ talent, diligence, and desire to see that all people are treated fairly and respectfully – no matter the allegation or circumstance.

The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.