Job Details for Assistant Federal Public Defender (AFPD)

The AFPD will advocate for clients charged with criminal offenses or involved in pre- or post-conviction proceedings in the U.S. District Court and in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. The position requires managing cases at various stages of litigation; preparing pleadings, briefs, and motions; appearing in court hearings and at other related proceedings; developing litigation strategies; meeting with clients, experts, witnesses, and family members; developing sentencing strategies and mitigation plans, perfecting and pursuing appeals; and performing other duties as assigned. The AFPD will uphold every client’s constitutional rights during investigation, trial, sentencing, and appeal. They will advocate by collaborating with investigators, paralegals, and other Federal Defender staff to achieve client-centered goals and develop both trial defenses and mitigation evidence.

We are looking for a team-oriented lawyer with strong writing skills prepared to defend individuals facing a variety of federal crimes. The applicant should have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, as well as court personnel as part of their employment. The position seeks trial experience, oral advocacy, the ability to prioritize, and work independently and cooperatively. Work outside normal business hours is sometimes required, as is travel throughout our district and out-of-district. Telework is possible but limited by case-related, in-person responsibilities. The AFPD must be available to appear in the district court routinely and to meet with clients at county jails and prison facilities within a 200-mile radius.