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Assistant Federal Public Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Courts

Federal Public Defender

Kansas City, MO · On-site +1

$197K/yr

The incumbent Federal Public Defender will retire on December 31, 2026. The term of appointment is four years; annual salary will be equal to the salary of the U.S. Attorney for the district ...

Federal Public Defender

Legal Assistant

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Texas is accepting applications for the position of Legal Assistant, to be stationed in the Austin office. POSITION DUTIES The Legal Assistant ...

Federal Public Defender

Clerical Assistant

El Paso, TX · On-site

$36K - $50K/yr

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Texas is accepting applications for the position of clerical assistant, to be stationed in the El Paso office. The Federal Public Defender ...

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$23

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

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant federal public defender in the United States is $22.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $22.60 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 are hiring for Assistant Federal Public Defender jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Federal Public Defender job openings:
What states have the most Assistant Federal Public Defender jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Federal Public Defender jobs include:
Assistant Federal Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Federal Public Defender job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,000 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Federal Public Defender

U.S. Courts

Kansas City, MO • On-site, Remote

$197K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Summary
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit is accepting applications [under authority of 18 U.S.C. 3006A(g)(2)(A)] from all qualified persons for the position of Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Missouri headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. The incumbent Federal Public Defender will retire on December 31, 2026. The term of appointment is four years; annual salary will be equal to the salary of the U.S. Attorney for the district, currently $197,200.
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Duties
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The Federal Public Defender provides federal criminal defense services to individuals unable to afford counsel.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Federal Public Defenders may not engage in the private practice of law and are subject to judiciary financial disclosure requirements.
  • A background investigation is required.

Qualifications
An applicant must:
  1. be admitted to practice before the highest court of at least one state;
  2. be a member in good standing of every other state bar of which he/she is a member;
  3. have a minimum of five years criminal practice experience, preferably with significant criminal trial experience;
  4. have administrative expertise;
  5. have a reputation for integrity; and
  6. have a commitment to the representation of those unable to afford counsel.

Education
Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school is required.
Additional information
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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