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National Legal Aid & Defender Association

Assistant Federal Public Defender

National Legal Aid & Defender Association, Austin, Texas, us, 78716

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Position Description Position Announcement 26-04

ASSISTANT FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER Office of the Federal Public Defender

Western District of Texas (Austin)

The FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER, Western District of Texas, is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Federal Public Defender to be stationed in the Austin 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.

Duties The assistant federal public defender will represent clients charged with federal criminal offenses and clients involved in other matters covered under the Criminal Justice Act.

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

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

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

ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court and agency personnel as part of their employment

team-oriented, strategic litigation, compassionate representation, unique approaches to issues affecting our clients

Three to five years of federal criminal trial experience 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 participation in health and life insurance programs, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).

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