Assistant Federal Public Defender - Capital Habeas Unit

Full Job Description

Assistant Federal Public Defenders (AFPDs) are responsible for both big picture and day-to-day aspects of litigation; determining strategy; maintaining and leading the case team; and ensuring the client is receiving representation in accordance with the rules of professional conduct and prevailing norms of practice.

The most important qualifications for this position are a strong passion for helping those in need, the ability to communicate complex legal arguments clearly and concisely, and the ability to thrive in a team environment.

A successful candidate will have strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.

They will be motivated, creative, resourceful, and able to work with different types of people and personalities with tact, discretion, and compassion.

They will also have the ability to work well with others in a team-based approach. Fluency in a foreign language and/or experience with different cultures is a plus.

We are seeking candidates with experience representing clients in capital cases, habeas and/or post-conviction work.

An ideal candidate will have experience distilling large records and drafting persuasive legal briefs and pleadings. Experience working in criminal defense or related fields is a strong plus.

If you do not have criminal defense experience, please explain why you are now interested in working in criminal defense.

Additionally, applicants for this particular position should have the following: Initiative, drive, and the ability to take on a project within their area of expertise without waiting for instruction or a specific assignment.

A demonstrated commitment to providing high quality representation to indigent defendants. Comfort working with clients and their families in both prison and community settings.

The ability to identify and analyze legal issues from lengthy, complex records. The ability to write clearly and concisely.

The ability to prioritize projects and work both independently and cooperatively. Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build, motivate, and lead a team.

A demonstrated work history of dependability and responsibility. The ability to work in a high-demand, high-volume law office.

Advanced skills in Microsoft Office (especially Outlook, Teams, Word, and Excel), and Adobe. Proficiently in legal research, including the use of Lexis and Westlaw.

Fact management and document management skills. A valid driver's license and a reliable vehicle, as local travel will be necessary. Major Duties:

Day to day duties include, but are not limited to, reviewing all case documents, conducting legal research, writing briefs, motions, and pleadings, retaining experts, conducting hearings and arguments, building relationships, and managing case teams.

This position requires the ability to work as a team with investigators, paralegals, and other attorneys. This position requires some overnight out-of-state travel. It also requires local travel.

Our cases are subject to strict deadlines set by the court; thus, some evening and weekend work is required.

We hold ourselves to exceptionally high standards and expect the same of every member of our team.

Employees are expected to demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism, compassion, clear communication, client-centered judgment, and collaborative teamwork.

We value continuous learning and expect employees to actively seek improvement in their skills and knowledge.

Team members must be willing to acknowledge mistakes and areas for growth and take personal responsibility for developing proficiency in all skill areas relevant to capital habeas defense.

Employees are required to demonstrate good judgement and always maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.