Asst Federal Public Defender

The Federal Public Defender, Northern District of New York, is accepting applications for an Assistant Federal Public Defender in the Syracuse, NY office. The federal defender organization 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.

Requirements: An Assistant Federal Public Defender must be: (1) a graduate of an accredited law school, and admitted to practice in good standing before the highest court of a state; (2) licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York by the time of entrance on duty; and (3) licensed to practice law in the State of New York or must become so licensed at the earliest opportunity after entrance on duty. Minimum of 3 years federal criminal experience required. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation including an FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check.

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. The position requires travel for investigation, litigation, and training, and may involve foreign travel. Federal public defenders attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.

Selection Criteria: The successful applicant will have an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for personal and professional integrity. Experience in handling federal criminal cases is required. Spanish speaking is strongly preferred.

Salary and Benefits: The salary of an Assistant Federal Public Defender is commensurate with that of an Assistant United States 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. All employees of the office are at will, and all positions are subject to fluctuations in work load and funding. The position does include regular Government employment benefits including health and life insurance, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by electronic funds transfer (direct deposit).