POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT 22-08
Mitigation Specialist – Trial Unit
Office of the Federal Public Defender
District of Arizona, Tucson
THE FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER is accepting applications for a mitigation specialist to be stationed in Tucson. More than one position may be filled from this announcement. 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 to individuals unable to afford counsel. The organization has staffed offices in Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, and Flagstaff.
Duties. The mitigation specialist will assist attorneys across the district in investigating, analyzing, developing, and presenting mitigation evidence in the life history of clients. They will gather and summarize social history records, conduct interviews with lay and professional people with relevant knowledge about the client’s early childhood development, education, and employment, as well as their medical and mental health histories. Other duties include consulting with experts; developing/maintaining relationships with clients, their family members, local social service providers, and pretrial service officers; and any other duties as assigned.
Requirements. To qualify for this position, a Bachelor’s degree in social science or services and two years of specialized experience in social science, research, or mitigation is required. A Master’s degree in social science or services is strongly preferred. Qualifying experience should involve performing the following types of duties: conducting ongoing, exhaustive and independent investigations of every aspect of the client’s character, life history, record, and any circumstances of the offense, or other factors, which may provide a basis for a lesser sentence; and maintaining complete and accurate files, including records that may assist successor counsel. Heavy and extended travel is required. Spanish language fluency is preferred, but not required. Appointment is subject to U.S. Citizenship and a satisfactory background investigation.
Selection Criteria. The successful candidate will have a commitment to providing quality representation to indigent defendants and have a reputation for integrity. They will have a working knowledge of immigration, the criminal justice and correctional systems, mental health and other social services, and psychology and psychological testing. Excellent interviewing and writing skills are essential for the position, as is the ability to locate, obtain, review, analyze, and summarize relevant records. Successful applicants will be able to prioritize projects and work both independently and cooperatively with attorneys, investigators, and office staff.
How to Apply. Qualified persons may apply by sending via e-mail a letter of interest, resume, and representative writing sample. References will be required from candidates selected for an interview. Applicable experience should be described in detail. Send completed application to the Personnel Administrator, Federal Public Defender, District of Arizona, at [email protected]. Announced January 10, 2022; open until filled.