OFFICE OF THE FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER
Western District of Virginia
POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
ASSISTANT FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER - Abingdon Office
Announcement # VAW-2020-01
The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Virginia is seeking an attorney committed to zealous representation of the indigent accused—committed to protecting their constitutional interests while providing holistic representation. Our office mission requires that each employee embrace our core values: compassion, courage, competency, creativity, and collaboration.
As such, the ideal candidate will have all or most of the following skills: superior oral and written communication, jury trial experience, demonstrated ability to work with a team, ability to multitask and meet concrete deadlines, technological proficiency, and history of aggressive, but civil, representation on behalf of clients. Further, the ideal candidate will be client-centered, open-minded, creative, empathetic, a quick learner, enthusiastic, honest, hard-working, and respectful of others.
The Office of the Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Virginia provides legal representation in criminal defense services to individuals charged with federal crimes who are financially unable to retain counsel. Assistant Federal Public Defenders provide direct representation of indigent persons charged with federal crimes in the Western District of Virginia, on appeals to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, and in post-conviction matters brought in federal court.
Abingdon is a charming, historic town that boasts the Virginia Creeper Trail, the Barter Theater (the renowned state theater of Virginia), and has the honor of being listed as USA Today’s “Best Small Town Food Scene.” It is nestled in close proximity to Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, and North Carolina. More importantly, the cases that stem from this region are varied and interesting.
This position is for a licensed attorney. Applicants must be an active member and in good standing with a State Bar, and eligible for admission to the Western District of Virginia. Candidates that do not meet this criterion will not be considered for employment.
Salary is dependent on experience and qualifications. This position is full-time with federal salary and benefits. Employees of the Federal Public Defender are members of the judicial branch of government. They are considered at-will employees and are not covered by the Civil Service Reform Act. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation. Salary payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer.
Please send a cover letter, resume, and writing sample (in pdf format only) to:
Dawn C. Scott, Administrative Officer
210 First Street, SW, Suite 400
Roanoke, Virginia 24011
[email protected]
Application Deadline: Priority will be given to applications received by November 20, 2019. The position will remain open until filled.
THE OFFICE OF THE FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER