Summary The federal defender organization operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. Section 306A, to provide defense services in federal criminal cases and related matters by appointment from the court. The organization has staffed offices in Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, and Flagstaff. Responsibilities The assistant federal public defender will represent clients charged with federal criminal offenses and clients involved in other matters covered under the Criminal Justice Act. The position requires travel for investigation, litigation, and training. Federal public defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law. Requirements Conditions of Employment An assistant federal public defender must be: (1) a graduate of an accredited law school; (2) admitted to practice in good standing before the highest court of a state; and (3) licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court by the time of entrance on duty. Applicants must have at a minimum three years' experience in trial work or other related work, and a commitment to criminal defense. Five years of experience is preferred. Spanish language fluency is preferred for this position. Applicants selected for interview will be tested for Spanish fluency. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation including an FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check. Qualifications An assistant federal public defender must be: (1) a graduate of an accredited law school; (2) admitted to practice in good standing before the highest court of a state; and (3) licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court by the time of entrance on duty. Applicants must have at a minimum three years' experience in trial work or other related work, and a commitment to criminal defense. Education A graduate of an accredited law school. Additional Information The salary of an assistant federal public defender is commensurate with that of an assistant U.S. attorney with similar qualifications and experience. The position is in the excepted service and does not carry the tenure rights of the competitive Civil Service. The position does include regular Government employment benefits including health and life insurance, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit). All positions are at will and are subject to the availability of funds.