The United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit invites applications from all qualified persons for the position of Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Washington. The term of office is four years, with potential for appointment to successive terms. The current authorized annual salary is $195,200. The position will be available starting May 5, 2026.
The Federal Public Defender, functioning under the authority of 18 U.S.C. § 3006A(g)(2)(A) and the Criminal Justice Act Plan of the Western District of Washington, provides criminal defense services to individuals unable to afford counsel. The Federal Public Defender manages an annual budget of $15 million and an office of about 55 employees, including attorneys, paralegals, investigators, and administrative personnel. The Office of the Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Washington is headquartered in Seattle, where the Defender is primarily based, and maintains a branch office in Tacoma.
Applicants must satisfy the following conditions: (1) be admitted to practice before the highest court of at least one state or U.S. territory and be a member in good standing of every bar of which they are a member; (2) have a minimum of ten years of criminal law practice, preferably with significant federal criminal trial and appellate experience; (3) possess the ability to lead, manage, and effectively administer a defender office and a demonstrated commitment to maintaining an ethical and civil workplace environment; (4) possess a commitment to supporting a diverse workforce and creating fair and equal opportunities for employees to succeed; and (5) possess and have a verifiable reputation for integrity and good character, a commitment to equal justice under the law and vigorous representation of those unable to afford counsel, and outstanding legal ability and competence.
The Federal Public Defender may not be related by blood or marriage to a judge of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals or to a judge of the district court to be served, within the degrees specified in 28 U.S.C § 458, may not engage in the private practice of law, and is subject to a full background investigation and judiciary financial disclosure requirements.
A Local Screening Committee will review all applications and interview the most qualified candidates. The screening committee will refer the most qualified candidates to the Ninth Circuit Standing Committee on Federal Public Defenders, who will refer the best qualified candidate to the Court of Appeals for selection and appointment.
The application form and further information are available at https://www.ca9.uscourts.gov/fpd or from the Office of the Circuit Executive at [email protected] or 415-355-8988. Applicants are advised to allow for sufficient time to complete and submit the application.
A PDF copy of the completed and signed application, including a current resume or CV, law school transcripts, state bar certifications of good standing, and optional letters of reference must be emailed to [email protected] no later than November 3, 2025. Letters of reference not included with the application will not be considered.
Submission Deadline: November 3, 2025
NLADA Mutual Insurance Co., RRG
