Assistant Federal Public Defender

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Job location
United States
Organization information
Organization name: 
Federal Public Defender, Iowa N & S
Street address: 
101 W. 2nd Street, Suite 401
City: 
Davenport
State: 
Iowa
ZIP: 
52801
Job type: 
Legal - Defender
Position Description: 

The Federal Public Defender for the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa seeks applications for the position of Assistant Federal Public Defender in its Davenport office.

ABOUT US: The Federal Public Defender Office operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act (18 U.S.C. § 3006A) to represent individuals who are unable to afford counsel and are prosecuted in our federal courts. Our office is committed to serving the distinct needs of these individuals with a diverse group of dedicated professionals who collaborate with, listen to, and advocate on behalf of one another. We welcome and value individuals of any race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability, age, veteran status, and other status protected by law. Click here for more information about our office.

JOB DESCRIPTION: An Assistant Federal Public Defender represents indigent criminal defendants in trial, appeal, and ancillary matters under the direction and guidance of the Federal Public Defender. The successful candidate will predominately be responsible for trial-level representation, but will occasionally handle appeal and ancillary matters as directed by the Federal Public Defender. Regular court appearances and travel for court and client meetings will be required. The successful applicant will have demonstrated a capacity or aptitude for excellence in criminal practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for personal integrity. The Federal Public Defender follows a hybrid work model, allowing attorneys to incorporate telework when consistent with obligations to clients and the court. Federal Public Defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.

Requirements: 

REQUIREMENTS: The successful candidate must:
• Have a J.D. from an accredited law school;
• Be admitted to practice and in good standing before the highest court of any state or the District of Columbia;
• Be a U.S. citizen or otherwise eligible to work in the United States;
• Possess proficient research skills and effective written and oral communication abilities;
• Work well in a team environment;
• Be comfortable working closely with a diverse set of clients; and
• Have at least one year of experience as a practicing attorney or law clerk.

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS: Other preferred qualifications that will help a candidate in the hiring process (but are not required) include:

• Federal trial experience;
• Criminal trial experience of any sort;
• Appellate experience;
• Experience as a federal judicial clerk; and
• Spanish fluency.

BACKGROUND CHECK: The selected candidate will be subject to a background check and subsequent favorable suitability determination as a condition of employment. Employment will be considered provisional until favorable suitability is confirmed.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: Salary is commensurate to Assistant U.S. Attorneys with similar qualifications and experience. Benefits include health and life insurance, retirement, the Thrift Savings Plan, 11 paid federal holidays, and generous annual and sick leave. This position is subject to mandatory Electronic Funds Transfer payment of net pay.

To apply: 

APPLICATION PROCESS: Electronically submit resume, writing sample, and cover letter in a single PDF to [email protected]. The email subject line must read: Davenport position announcement 2403.

The position is open until filled. Only applicants considered for an interview will be contacted. No telephone calls, please.

Notes: 
Equal Opportunity Employer