The Federal Public Defender for the Central District of Illinois is accepting applications for the permanent position of Assistant Federal Public Defender with a duty station in Springfield. The Federal Public Defender’s Office provides defense services in federal criminal cases and related matters in federal court pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. Section 3006A. Our office is committed to providing the highest level of representation to our clients. The outside practice of law is prohibited.
Qualifications. An Assistant Federal Public Defender must have a commitment to the zealous representation of indigent clients and a reputation for personal integrity. A minimum of three years’ experience in the area of criminal defense is preferred. Excellent oral communication, research skills, and writing skills are required. The selected candidate must be able to assume a substantial caseload immediately and without significant supervision. The position requires regular travel to local detention facilities to visit detained clients and occasional travel to Chicago to appear before the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. Proficiency in Spanish is useful but not required.
Salary and Benefits. This full-time position is in the excepted service and offers full federal benefits, including Federal Employees Retirement System, Thrift Savings Plan, health and life insurance, annual and sick leave, and paid holidays. Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Applicants must be (1) United States citizens or authorized to work in the United States; (2) licensed by the highest court of a state, federal territory, or the District of Columbia; and (3) a member in good standing in all courts where admitted to practice. A valid driver’s license is also required.
Qualified persons may apply by sending the following, in one PDF document, to:
[email protected]
(1) letter of interest
(2) resume with three professional references familiar with applicant’s legal skills
(3) recent writing sample that has not been edited by others
(4) completed AO78 Application for Judicial Employment (See https://ilc.fd.org/employment for full announcement and AO78 application.)
This position is open until filled, with preference given to applications received by February 9, 2024.
An email confirming receipt of the application materials will be sent to all applicants. Only those selected for interviews will receive further communication. No telephone inquiries please. Costs associated with interviewing and relocation will not be reimbursed. All positions are subject to the availability of funds. For more information about our office, visit https://ilc.fd.org.