What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Federal Public Defender (Buffalo) position at U.S. Courts?
Duties
We represent the accused from arrest through trial and appeal, including the U.S. Supreme Court. We work together to uphold every person's right to be presumed innocent and to a fair sentence if convicted. Our defense is vigorous, both at trial and on appeal. We advocate for fair and just treatment for our clients by demonstrating their humanity.
Responsibilities
An Assistant Federal Public Defender provides zealous, professional legal representation to indigent persons charged with criminal offenses in the United States District Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit. Responsibilities include managing an extensive caseload with cases at varying stages of litigation; preparing pleadings, briefs, and motions; representing clients in trial, hearings and at other related proceedings; reviewing various documents; developing litigation strategies; meeting with clients, experts, witnesses, family members, and others.
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
N/A
Qualifications
- Applicants must either be admitted to the State Bar of New York or be a member in good standing of another state bar.
- The ability to coordinate the work of others.
- A comprehensive knowledge of legal principles, practices, methods and techniques.
- The ability to identify and evaluate pertinent facts and regulations, policies, and precedents.
- An understanding of criminal law, criminal procedure, and evidence.
- Strong writing and advocacy skills, the ability to work in a team environment, and a demonstrated commitment to criminal defense.
- The skills and abilities to execute the duties of the position.
Education
Applicants must either be admitted to the State Bar of New York or be a member in good standing of another state bar.
Additional information
Highly competitive federal benefit package with health insurance and life insurance, retirement and a Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401K).
This is a full-time position that precludes the private practice of law. Employees are considered at- will and are not covered by the Civil Service Reform Act. A final offer of employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation including name, fingerprint and IRS tax check.
Benefits
Review our benefits
How You Will Be Evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Please read the "Next steps" section for more information.
Benefits
Review our benefits
Required Documents
As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.
Please read the "How to Apply" section.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
NO PHONE CALLS OR EMAILS PLEASE. Applicants must send a resume, a writing sample, a cover letter, the AO 78 Federal Judicial Branch Application for Employment - http://nyw.fd.org/employment/pdfs/AO_078.pdf and three professional references in .pdf format, to Chelsea Miller at zzNYWml_HR1@fd.org. using the subject reference: Buffalo Assistant Federal Public Defender. Applicants who apply without submitting all documents will not be considered.
Agency contact information
Chelsea MillerEmailzzNYWml_HR1@fd.orgAddressFederal Public Defender, Western District of New York
300 Pearl Street
Suite 200
Buffalo, NY 14202
USNext steps
Rolling interviews will be conducted. This position is subject to the availability of funds and is open until filled. All responses will remain confidential. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The Federal Defender Office may fill current and future positions from this vacancy announcement. We are an equal opportunity employer.
Fair and Transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
- Criminal history inquiries
- Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
- Financial suitability
- New employee probationary period
- Privacy Act
- Reasonable accommodation policy
- Selective Service
- Signature and false statements
- Social security number request
Required Documents
Please read the "How to Apply" section.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
This job is open to
- The public
U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
Clarification from the agency
This announcement is open until filled.