Duties: Assistant Federal Public Defender duties include trials and court hearings, direct appeals to the circuit court, post-conviction and witness representation, and representation in other matters such as supervised release hearings and probation and parole hearings. The position requires travel for investigation, litigation, and training. Federal Public Defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.
Selection Criteria: The successful applicant must have a demonstrated capacity or aptitude for excellence in trial and appellate practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and sufficient experience to immediately undertake the defense of serious criminal cases in the United States courts. This position also requires excellent research skills; proficiency in computer-assisted legal research; word processing capability; and time management skills. This position also requires the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court and agency personnel.
An Assistant Federal Public Defender must be: (1) a U.S. citizen or eligible to be employed in the United States; (2) a graduate of an accredited law school, and have admission and good standing in a state bar; (3) licensed to practice law in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia, or must become so licensed within one year after entrance on duty; and (4) licensed to practice law in the State of West Virginia, or must become so licensed within one year after entrance on duty.
Qualified persons may apply by submitting a letter of interest, resume, three professional references, law school and undergraduate transcripts, and one writing sample to: Federal Public Defender, U.S. Courthouse, Room 3400, 300 Virginia Street, East, Charleston, WV 25301. Electronic submissions may be sent to [email protected].