Job Details for Federal Public Defender
| Court Name/Organization | Fourth Circuit |
| Overview of the Position | The Federal Public Defender, functioning under the authority of 18 U.S.C. Section 3006A(g)(2)(A) and the Criminal Justice Act Plan of the District, provides criminal defense services to individuals unable to afford counsel. In addition, the Federal Public Defender supervises a staff of trial and appellate attorneys, investigators, and support personnel. The Fourth Circuit prides itself on being collegial and collaborative, as well as an overall exemplary place to work. We warmly welcome those who share our vision, values, and passion to apply. Appointment: Four-Year Term/Full-time, to start fall 2026 |
| Location | Baltimore, MD |
| Opening and Closing Dates | 12/02/2025 - 01/05/2026 |
| Appointment Type | Temporary |
| Salary | Starting: $195,200 |
| Link to Court Careers Information | http://www.ca4.uscourts.gov |
| Announcement Number | FPD-MD26 |
| Link to Job Announcement | |
Qualifications
Applicants must satisfy the following conditions: (1) be a member in good standing of the highest court of at least one state or the District of Columbia, and a member in good standing of every other State Bar of which they are a member; (2) have a minimum of five years of criminal practice experience, preferably with significant federal criminal trial experience, which demonstrates an ability to provide zealous representation of consistently high quality to criminal defendants; 3) the ability to effectively administer the office; (4) a reputation for integrity; and (5) a commitment to the representation of those unable to afford counsel.
Application Info
Email as a single PDF document to vacancy@ca4.uscourts.gov:
- A cover letter and résumé, including a mention of where you saw this announcement
- A Federal Public Defender application
- A Federal Judiciary application
- Letter(s) of reference (optional)
Applications must be completed and received no later than 5 p.m. ET, Jan. 5, 2026.
The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.