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Federal Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Federal Public Defender

Legal Assistant

Midland, TX · On-site

$44K - $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 Midland office. POSITION DUTIES The Legal Assistant ...

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 ...

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Federal Defender information

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$47K

$78.6K

$132K

How much do federal defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal defender in the United States is $78,587.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal defender?

Federal defenders are attorneys who provide legal representation to individuals charged with federal crimes who cannot afford to hire private counsel. They are part of the federal public defender system, which is designed to ensure that everyone has access to fair legal defense, regardless of their financial situation. Federal defenders handle a variety of cases, ranging from drug offenses to white-collar crimes, and work to protect the rights of the accused throughout the federal criminal justice process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal defender?

To thrive as a Federal Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a comprehensive understanding of federal criminal law and procedure. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and experience with case management systems, are typically required. Exceptional advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills, along with empathy and resilience, help distinguish outstanding defenders. These competencies are essential for ensuring effective legal representation, protecting clients' rights, and navigating the complexities of the federal justice system.

What are some common challenges faced by federal defenders in managing their caseloads?

Federal Defenders often handle a high volume of complex cases, which can require balancing tight deadlines, thorough legal research, and frequent court appearances. Managing client communication and building trust, especially with clients facing serious charges, can be demanding. Collaboration with investigators, paralegals, and other attorneys is essential to prepare effective defenses. Staying up to date with changes in federal law and procedure is also a key part of the role, as is maintaining a commitment to ethical and diligent representation under often challenging circumstances.

What is the difference between Federal Defender vs Public Defender?

AspectFederal DefenderPublic Defender
CredentialsJuris Doctor, bar admission, specialized federal criminal law knowledgeJuris Doctor, bar admission, state-specific criminal law knowledge
Work EnvironmentFederal courts, federal criminal casesState courts, state criminal cases
EmployerFederal Public Defender ServiceCounty or state government agencies
Industry UsageFederal criminal defenseState criminal defense

The main difference between a Federal Defender and a Public Defender lies in their jurisdiction and employer. Federal Defenders work in federal courts handling federal criminal cases, while Public Defenders serve in state courts handling state criminal cases. Both roles require a Juris Doctor, bar admission, and strong criminal law knowledge, but their scope and employer differ significantly.

More about Federal Defender jobs

What cities are hiring for Federal Defender jobs?

Cities with the most Federal Defender job openings:

What states have the most Federal Defender jobs?

States with the most job openings for Federal Defender jobs include:

Federal Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Defender job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,587 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Appellate Assistant Federal Public Defender

Federal Public Defender

Sioux Falls, SD • On-site

$76K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER
Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota
Jason J. Tupman, Federal Public Defender
Telephone: (605) 330-4489; Fax: (605) 330-4499

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
ASSISTANT FEDERAL DEFENDER (APPELLATE)


The Federal Public Defender for the Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota is seeking an
Appellate Assistant Federal Public Defender. The successful candidate may choose to office in any
of our branch locations: Bismarck, Fargo, Pierre, Rapid City, or Sioux Falls. Our office provides
high-quality, client-centered representation to individuals charged with federal crimes who cannot
afford retained counsel, pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act.

Why Our Office
We are a collegial, mission-driven office committed to excellent federal defense practice. Our attorneys engage in thoughtful, rigorous advocacy supported by experienced investigators, paralegals, and administrative staff. We value collaboration, mentorship, creativity, and sound judgment. Although this is an appellate-focused role, you will be part of a team-oriented environment that emphasizes respect, integrity, and mutual support – for our clients and one another.

Position Description
The appellate attorney primarily prepares briefs, motions, and petitions for rehearing or certiorari in the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit and the Supreme Court of the United States. The position includes presenting oral arguments in the Eighth Circuit and may involve post-conviction work in the district court subject to office needs. Additionally, the appellate attorney provides research and writing support to trial attorneys in district courts. Attorneys in this office may not engage in the private practice of law.

Required Qualifications
1. Graduation from an accredited law school.
2. Admission in good standing to practice before the highest court of a state or the District of
Columbia.
3. Willingness to obtain bar admission in South Dakota and/or North Dakota within one year of
starting employment.
4. United States citizenship or authorization to work in the United States.

We seek applicants with exceptional research and writing skills, a demonstrated commitment to
indigent defense, and the ability to work collaboratively with attorneys, clients, court personnel, and agency staff. Creativity, sound judgment, and strong communication skills are highly valued.

Salary and Benefits
Salary is commensurate with experience and ranges from $76,748 - $180,078. This is a full-time
position with comprehensive federal benefits, including health and life insurance, retirement, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is paid bi-weekly via direct deposit. Final offers are contingent upon funding availability and completion of a background investigation.

How to Apply
E-mail a single PDF containing a letter of interest, résumé, three references, and a recent writing
sample to SDX_JOBS@fd.org with the subject line, “Assistant Federal Defender (Appellate) –
Position Announcement 26-11”.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. More than one position may be filled from this announcement.

The Federal Public Defender for the Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota is an Equal
Opportunity Employer. Women and minorities encouraged to apply.
Position Announcement #26-11


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