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Appellate Defender Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

TRG Defender

Staff Public Defender

Eagle Pass, TX · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

... appeal. TRGPD delivers client-centered services to address unique needs and limited resources ... public defender office; are solution-oriented and creative; are able to work efficiently ...

TRG Defender

Staff Public Defender

Eagle Pass, TX · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

... appeal. TRGPD delivers client-centered services to address unique needs and limited resources ... public defender office; are solution-oriented and creative; are able to work efficiently ...

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All JobsAppellate Defender JobsAppellate Defender Jobs in Texas

Appellate Defender information

See Texas salary details

$18.5K

$71.9K

$149.1K

How much do appellate defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for appellate defender in Texas is $71,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,489.00 and $87,943.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an appellate defender?

An Appellate Defender is an attorney who represents individuals appealing criminal convictions or sentences, typically on behalf of those who cannot afford private counsel. They handle legal research, draft appellate briefs, and argue cases before appellate courts, aiming to identify legal errors that may have occurred during the trial process. Appellate Defenders work to ensure that the rights of defendants are protected throughout the appeals process and that the law is applied fairly. Their work can lead to overturned convictions, new trials, or changes in sentencing.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an appellate defender?

To thrive as an Appellate Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills. Familiarity with legal research databases (such as Westlaw or LexisNexis), appellate procedure, and case management systems is crucial. Excellent oral advocacy, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively representing clients in appellate courts and ensuring fair legal outcomes.

What challenges does an appellate defender face when preparing and presenting cases?

Appellate Defenders often encounter challenges such as thoroughly analyzing extensive trial records, identifying viable legal arguments, and keeping up with evolving case law. Crafting persuasive briefs and delivering effective oral arguments require strong research and writing skills, as well as the ability to distill complex legal issues. Additionally, Appellate Defenders must balance a heavy caseload and tight deadlines while collaborating with trial attorneys and clients to ensure all relevant facts and arguments are presented on appeal.

What is the difference between Appellate Defender vs Public Defender?

AspectAppellate DefenderPublic Defender
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar admission, appellate experienceLaw degree, bar admission, criminal law experience
Work EnvironmentCourts, legal offices, appellate courtsCourts, legal offices, trial and appellate courts
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, legal firms, nonprofit organizationsGovernment agencies, legal firms, nonprofit organizations
Primary FocusHandling appeals, legal research, writing appellate briefsDefending clients at trial and appellate levels

Both Appellate Defenders and Public Defenders work within the criminal justice system, often employed by government agencies. While Public Defenders handle cases at trial and appellate levels, Appellate Defenders specialize in appeals, focusing on legal research and appellate briefs. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in criminal defense law.

What are popular job titles related to Appellate Defender jobs in Texas?

For Appellate Defender jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Appellate Defender jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Appellate Defender jobs in Texas are:

Appellate Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Appellate Defender job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,910 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

Assistant Federal Public Defender (Appellate)

Federal Public Defender

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$77K - $182K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Position Announcement 26-31
ASSISTANT FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER (Appellate)
Office of the Federal Public Defender
Western District of Texas (San Antonio)
The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Texas is accepting applications for an assistant federal public defender to be stationed in the San Antonio office, preferably, or another office within the Western District of Texas. The Federal Public Defender operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. 3006A, to provide defense services in federal criminal cases and related matters by appointment from the court to individuals unable to afford counsel.
Requirements. An assistant federal public defender must be (1) a graduate of an accredited law school; (2) admitted to practice before a state bar, but a Texas bar license is strongly preferred; and (3) licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court within one year after employment begins. At least three years of specialized experience is preferred. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including but not limited to an FBI name and fingerprint check.
Duties. An assistant federal public defender (Appellate) represents clients charged with and convicted of federal criminal offenses under the Criminal Justice Act. Regular responsibilities include working with clients; managing a caseload; reviewing complex case files and records on appeal; identifying relevant legal issues; providing trial support; preparing pleadings, briefings, and petitions; and maintaining in-depth and current knowledge of appellate practices and case law. The position requires travel for oral arguments. Federal public defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.
Selection Criteria. The successful applicant will have strong legal research and word processing skills, the ability to analyze legal issues from complex records, and write clearly and concisely. Applicants should also have an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for integrity. Applicants must be able to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, and court and agency personnel. Finally, applicants must also be team-oriented and possess skills for collaboration, strategic litigation, compassionate representation, and unique approaches to the issues affecting our clients. Appellate writing experience or experience in handling federal criminal cases is preferred.
Salary and Benefits. 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 offers federal government employment benefits, including health and life insurance, retirement, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).
How to Apply.
  • Cover letter, resume and representative writing sample.
  • 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. Attach your cover letter, resume, references and the AO-78 in one pdf. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

The Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer.

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