Assistant Federal Public Defender

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Texas is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Federal Public Defender, to be stationed in the Del Rio office.

POSITION DUTIES

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. Regular responsibilities include: Provide high‑quality legal representation and courtroom advocacy. Prepare motions and related legal documents. Conduct thorough legal research and analyze statutes, case law, and sentencing guidelines. Review complex records and identify key legal issues. Communicate effectively with court or agency personnel, opposing counsel, clients, witnesses, and colleagues. Maintain up‑to‑date expertise in criminal defense and pursue ongoing training. Perform other assigned duties.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Three to five years of federal criminal trial experience preferred. Strong writing and oral advocacy skills. Proven capacity or clear aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice. Commitment to representing indigent accused individuals. Demonstrated integrity and professionalism. Team‑oriented with strong collaboration and strategic‑litigation skills. Spanish language fluency. Employment contingent on a satisfactory background check (FBI name & fingerprints).

BENEFITS

Retirement benefits under the Federal Employees Retirement System. Optional participation in Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB). Optional participation in Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). Optional participation in Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI). Position is excepted service, without competitive civil service tenure.

HOW TO APPLY

Cover letter and resume. Three professional references with their contact information. Form AO-78 – All sections of the AO-78 must be completed in full, with dates in the following format: mm/dd/yyyy. Apply at Openings at Federal Public Defender, Western District of Texas or Attach your cover letter, resume, references and the AO-78 in one pdf. Incomplete applications will not be considered. To request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or interview process, contact personnel administrator Christopher Schmidt at View phone number on click.appcast.io.