ASSISTANT FEDERAL DEFENDER 2026-06

The Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of Connecticut provides legal representation to persons charged with committing federal crimes who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. We represent the accused from arrest through trial and appeal, including the U.S. Supreme Court. We are attorneys, paralegals, investigators, mitigation specialists, office administrators, and information technology specialists. Our team fosters interdisciplinary skill sets that ensure compassionate and comprehensive representation. We work together to uphold every person's right to be presumed innocent, to have a fair trial, to mitigation, and to have a fair sentence, if convicted. Our defense is vigorous, both at trial and on appeal. We advocate for humane sentences through client-centered representation, which honors an individual's lived experience. Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice : We are committed to cultivating a culture of acceptance and connectedness that honors the diverse backgrounds of the people we represent. Our commitment to inclusion is integral to our commitment to a fair justice system. In recruiting members of our team, we welcome the full spectrum of humanity. We embrace the unique contributions our employees can bring to our office because of their backgrounds, social identities, and lived experiences. We know that the best legal representation occurs through a diverse, collaborative, and inclusive workforce.

THE OPPORTUNITY

We seek a Research and Writing Attorney to join our Hartford office in August 2026. The Research and Writing Attorney drafts motions, memoranda, petitions, and briefs to be filled in the U.S. District Court, the U.S. Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court. The Research and Writing Attorney also consults with the assistant defenders on legal issues arising in motion practice, evidentiary hearings, trials, and appeals. A Research and Writing Attorney may have to perform general paralegal duties. The Office's business often requires team members to work together and support each other at various and sometimes unpredictable instances. Accordingly, the foregoing job description is only a sample of the work involved and other duties and needs may arise.

QUALIFICATIONS

To qualify, the applicant should have the following: A desire and capacity to work collaboratively in a team environment. Strong legal research and word processing skills. The ability to analyze legal issues from complex records and write clearly and concisely. Understanding of criminal law, criminal procedure, and evidence Knowledge of sentencing guidelines and evidence handling. Computer fluency in the Microsoft Office suite of programs, including Excel and Adobe Acrobat. Strong planning and organizational skills. The ability to keep confidences and protect legal privileges. The ability to recognize and analyze problems and recommend practical solutions. The desire to work with and on behalf of people from diverse backgrounds. A strong commitment to providing holistic representational support to indigent persons in proceedings under federal criminal law. Proficiency in Spanish (preferred). The position requires that the applicant possess a valid driver's license, insurance, and own/operate a personal vehicle for business purposes (mileage is reimbursable). Occasional travel is required, including night and weekend work. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation including, but not limited to an FBI fingerprint and name check.

EXPERIENCE/ EDUCATION

Applicants must be a graduate of an accredited law school and admitted to practice, in good standing, before the highest court of a state. Appellate writing experience or experience in handling federal criminal cases is preferred.

SALARY AND BENEFIT DETAILS

The 2026 salary plan for this position has a starting salary range of $86,596 to $197,100. The starting salary will be based on the candidate's professional attorney experience. The position offers federal employment benefits, including paid vacation, paid sick time, paid holidays, health insurance, life insurance, retirement plan, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (401k). Teleworking is available, consistent with office policy, court obligations, and position duties. We especially encourage applications from members of the BIPOC community, people affected by the criminal legal system, and people from other underrepresented and historically marginalized groups. We are interested in applicants' talent, intelligence, dedication, and desire to see that all people are treated fairly and respectfully, no matter the allegation or circumstance. The Federal Public Defender for the District of Connecticut is an equal opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Federal Public Defender, District of Connecticut