Job Details for Assistant Federal Public Defender
| Court Name/Organization | New Mexico Federal Public Defender |
| Overview of the Position | The mission of our office is to provide high quality, client-centered representation to people charged with federal crimes in New Mexico. We fight for the Sixth Amendment Right to Counsel by providing zealous and effective representation to every client. |
| Location | Las Cruces, NM |
| Opening and Closing Dates | 01/21/2026 - 03/01/2026 |
| Appointment Type | Permanent |
| Salary | $76,748 - $197,100 |
| Link to Court Careers Information | https://nm.fd.org/employments-internships |
| Announcement Number | 2026-01 |
| Link to Job Announcement | |
Position Description
As a Trial Attorney, you will represent clients in all stages of federal criminal proceedings, including trial, and sentencing. The role involves managing a diverse caseload with complex legal and factual issues, developing litigation strategies, and preparing motions, pleadings, and briefs. You will appear in court to advocate on behalf of clients, conduct legal research and investigations, and maintain regular communication with clients, experts, family members, and witnesses. Collaboration is key, and you will work closely with colleagues in a supportive, team-oriented environment.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- J.D. from an accredited law school
- Admission and good standing before the highest court of a state
- License to practice in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico (or ability to obtain it promptly upon hire)
- Become a member of the New Mexico State Bar within one year of start date
- Excellent oral and written advocacy skills
- Strong interpersonal and organizational abilities
- Demonstrated commitment to the defense of underserved and marginalized communities
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as needed for casework, training, and investigations
Preferred Qualifications: These qualifications are not required to be considered for this role but are highly valued.
- Minimum of three years of criminal defense trial experience
- Spanish language proficiency
- Experience working with people from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences
Employee Benefits
This is a full- time, at- will position within the federal judiciary. The salary range is $76,748 to $197,100, based on experience and qualifications. The position includes a comprehensive benefits package, featuring health, dental, vision, and life insurance; 13 to 26 days of annual leave depending on years of service; 13 days of sick leave per year; and 12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service. Employees also receive 11 paid federal holidays, participate in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), and may contribute to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with up to 5 percent government matching. The position is eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and includes access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), credit for prior federal service, and regular continuing legal education opportunities. A one day per week telework option may be available depending on caseload, and employees benefit from access to wellness resources and programming.
Miscellaneous
As a Trial Attorney, you will represent clients in all stages of federal criminal proceedings, including trial, and sentencing. The role involves managing a diverse caseload with complex legal and factual issues, developing litigation strategies, and preparing motions, pleadings, and briefs. You will appear in court to advocate on behalf of clients, conduct legal research and investigations, and maintain regular communication with clients, experts, family members, and witnesses. Collaboration is key, and you will work closely with colleagues in a supportive, team-oriented environment.
Application Info
Interested applicants are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a cover letter, resume, and three references via email to the attention of:
Margaret Katze, Federal Public Defender
FDNM-HR@fd.org
Subject: 2026-01 Assistant Federal Public Defender – Trial Attorney
The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.