The Federal Public Defender, Southern District of Texas, is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Federal Public Defender to be stationed in the McAllen office in the trial division. 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.
The assistant federal public defender will represent clients charged with federal criminal offenses and clients involved in other matters covered under the Criminal Justice Act. The position requires travel for investigation, litigation, and training. Federal public defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.
The successful applicant will have an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for personal and professional integrity. Applicants must also possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court and agency personnel as part of their employment. Experience in handling federal criminal cases is preferred.
An Assistant Federal Public Defender must be: (1) a graduate of an accredited law school, and admitted to practice in good standing before the highest court of a state; and (2) licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas by the time of entrance on duty. Trial experience preferred. Spanish language proficiency is required for this position. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation including an FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check.
Qualified persons may apply by forwarding a letter of interest (mentioning announcement number 21-08M), résumé, and representative writing sample. Legal experience should be described in detail. Send completed application to: Marjorie A. Meyers, Federal Public Defender, Southern District of Texas, 440 Louisiana St., Suite 1350, Houston, Texas 77002 or email in PDF format to [email protected]. For applicants with disabilities, this organization provides reasonable accommodations, which are decided on a case-by-case basis. To request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or interview process, please contact Administrative Officer Laura Dusthimer at (713) 718-4600. More than one position may be filled with this announcement. Position announced July 22, 2021; open until filled.