Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota: Assistant Federal Public Defender
Position Title: Assistant Federal Public Defender
Position Description: POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
ASSISTANT FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER
The Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota seeks an attorney to join our branch office in Pierre, South Dakota. Our office provides high-quality representation to people charged with federal crimes who cannot afford to hire an attorney. We operate under the authority of the Criminal Justice Act.
Position Description: Assistant Federal Public Defenders zealously and professionally represent clients in a fast-paced, challenging, diverse, and rewarding work environment. Responsibilities include managing a caseload; working with clients; interviewing witnesses and family members; developing release plans; reviewing discovery; preparing pleadings, motions, and briefs; developing litigation strategies; working with experts; advising CJA panel attorneys; and in-court litigation through all stages of a criminal case. Some travel is necessary. The majority of the position’s caseload comes from alleged crimes occurring on the lands of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, and Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Attorneys in our office may not engage in the private practice of law.
Qualifications: Required: (1) graduation from an accredited law school; (2) admission to practice in good standing before the highest court of a state or the District of Columbia; (3) admission to practice to the state bar of South Dakota Bar within a year of beginning employment; and (4) US citizenship or work authorization.
Above all we are looking for applicants with a demonstrated commitment to indigent defense, and an ability to work well in a team environment. We value court experience, creativity, and superior research and writing skills. We are willing to train the right candidate and are flexible as to start date.
Salary and Benefits: The salary range is commensurate with experience within a range of $70,821-166,173. The position is full-time with federal benefits, including health and life insurance, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is paid bi-weekly and only by direct deposit. A final offer of employment is subject to funding and a background check.
How to Apply: Apply by emailing a letter of interest, resume, three references, and a recent writing sample in a single pdf document to SDX_JOBS@fd.org. The position is open until filled.
The Federal Public Defender for the Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and minorities encouraged to apply.
Email: SDX_JOBS@fd.org
Vacancy Announcement: September 21, 2021
Deadline:
Eligibility: 3L, Recent Grads, Attorneys
Location: Pierre, South Dakota