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Assistant Federal Public Defender Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Deloitte

Tax Manager - Federal / Corporate Tax

Raleigh, NC

$107K - $141K/yr

Our team will assist with global tax challenges and transform the tax department to create greater ... Licensed CPA in state of practice/primary office if eligible to sit for the CPA * If not CPA ...

NorthPoint Search Group

Public Tax Staff Accountant

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$56K - $75K/yr

Public Tax Staff Accountant To Apply Now - email your resume to [email protected] Who: A motivated ... Assist with routine federal and state agency inquiries. • Maintain frequent client contact to ...

Piedmont Health

Assistant Controller

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$111K - $150K/yr

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) are community-based healthcare providers that receive ... Certified Public Accountant (CPA), strongly preferred. Experience: * 5 years of progressive ...

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Assistant Federal Public Defender information

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How much do assistant federal public defender jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant federal public defender in Raleigh, NC is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Federal Public Defenders when managing their caseloads?

Assistant Federal Public Defenders often handle a high volume of complex cases simultaneously, requiring excellent time management and organizational skills. Balancing thorough client representation with strict court deadlines can be demanding, especially as many clients face serious federal charges and have limited resources. Additionally, public defenders must stay current on evolving federal laws and sentencing guidelines while collaborating closely with investigators, paralegals, and other attorneys. The role demands resilience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to client advocacy.

What are Assistant Federal Public Defenders?

Assistant Federal Public Defenders are attorneys employed by the federal government to represent individuals charged with federal crimes who cannot afford to hire a private lawyer. They work within the Office of the Federal Public Defender and provide legal defense throughout all stages of the criminal process, from investigation through appeal. Their duties include advising clients, conducting legal research, preparing court documents, negotiating plea deals, and representing clients in court. Assistant Federal Public Defenders play a crucial role in ensuring everyone has access to fair legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Federal Public Defender, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Federal Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, state bar admission, and strong expertise in criminal defense law and trial advocacy. Familiarity with federal court procedures, legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and case management systems is essential. Excellent communication, negotiation, and empathy are vital soft skills for effectively representing and supporting indigent clients. These abilities are crucial for ensuring fair representation, navigating complex legal processes, and advocating for clients’ rights in federal court.

What is the difference between Assistant Federal Public Defender vs Public Defender Investigator?

AspectAssistant Federal Public DefenderPublic Defender Investigator
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admissionHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require related experience
Work EnvironmentLegal offices, courtroom support, case preparationFieldwork, interviews, evidence gathering
Employer & IndustryFederal public defender offices, criminal defensePublic defender offices, criminal justice
Primary RoleLegal defense, case analysis, courtroom advocacyInvestigating cases, collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses

Assistant Federal Public Defenders focus on legal defense and courtroom work, requiring legal credentials. Public Defender Investigators support cases through investigation and evidence collection, often with less formal education. Both roles serve public defense but have distinct responsibilities and skill requirements.

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Assistant Federal Public Defender jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Assistant Federal Public Defender job openings:
Assistant Federal Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Federal Public Defender job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,298 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Federal & State Criminal Defense Attorney

Guirguis Law PA

Raleigh, NC

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

 Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

Location: North Carolina (with minor travel throughout the state)
Firm: Guirguis Law, Federal Criminal Defense Team
Practice Area: Federal Criminal Defense & Post-Conviction Relief
Position Summary:
Guirguis Law is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Federal Attorney to join our growing Federal & State Criminal Defense Team. This role focuses on handling federal criminal matters and post-conviction relief, including compassionate release motions and appellate advocacy before the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist with all stages of federal criminal defense, including:
    • Reviewing discovery and evidence
    • Drafting and filing pretrial motions
    • Preparing for trial and hearings
    • Advising and interviewing clients
    • Supporting lead counsel in court appearances
  • Handle compassionate release and federal appeals
  • Conduct legal research and draft high-quality briefs and memoranda
  • Maintain organized caseload and meet tight deadlines under supervision and independently
Qualifications:

  • Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
  • Licensed to practice law in North Carolina or eligible for immediate licensure
  • Strong legal research, writing, and advocacy skills are essential
  • Courtroom experience preferred 
  • Prior experience or internships in criminal defense, public defender’s office, or prosecutor’s office is a plus
  • Must be detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing a heavy caseload
  • Willingness to travel occasionally within North Carolina
What We Offer:

  • Opportunity to work on high-impact federal cases
  • Supportive and experienced legal team environment
  • Growth potential within a respected federal defense firm
  • Competitive compensation and benefits