Full-Time Assistant Federal Public Defender – Research and Writing Specialist
Job Description
POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
Assistant Federal Public Defender – Research and Writing Specialist
October 2022
THE POSITION:
The Federal Public Defender Office for the Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island is hiring a temporary full-time Assistant Federal Public Defender – Research and Writing Specialist in the Boston, Massachusetts office. This temporary position is expected to last from the date of hire until November 2023. The successful applicant will be selected through a nation-wide search. All eligible attorneys interested in this position are encouraged to apply.
As an Assistant Federal Public Defender – Research and Writing Specialist, you will work collaboratively with a team of Assistant Federal Public Defenders, Investigators, Paralegals and Legal Assistants. An Assistant Federal Public Defender – Research and Writing Specialist will provide advanced legal research, drafting, analysis and litigation assistance to Assistant Federal Public Defenders. The Research and Writing Specialist will stay apprised of the latest developments in criminal law and procedure in federal and state courts. This particular position is best suited for someone with experience with Habeas Corpus petitions. The Assistant Federal Public Defender – Research and Writing Specialist will analyze and research client and case-related records, develop relationships with clients through meetings and correspondence, research and aid in drafting federal habeas corpus petitions, legal pleadings relating to those petitions and engage in appellate litigation of habeas petitions.
WHAT WE DO:
The Federal Public Defender Office is a law office that provides legal representation to persons charged with committing federal crimes who cannot afford to hire an attorney. We represent the accused from arrest through trial and appeal, including the U.S. Supreme Court and federal habeas corpus review.
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 our clients by showing judges and prosecutors that we represent people, not criminals.
WHO WE ARE:
We are attorneys, legal assistants, paralegals, investigators, office administrators, and information technology specialists committed to cultivating a culture of acceptance and connectedness that honors the diverse backgrounds of the people we represent.
We value diversity and a commitment to equality, and we believe better legal representation occurs when members of the defense team have diverse backgrounds and experiences. In recruiting members of our team, we welcome the full spectrum of humanity. We embrace the unique contributions that you can bring, including your culture, ethnicity, education, opinions, race, sex, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, veteran’s status, religion, disability, and economic status.
WHO YOU ARE:
In addition to exceptional trial and research and writing skills, you have a minimum of 5 years of experience as a lawyer. You are a trusted, reliable, and efficient attorney who is eager to partner with members of the defense team so the office can provide exceptional legal services. You manage numerous projects and deadlines effectively, have exceptional organizational skills, and are eager to learn new systems. You are a capable user of technology and understand its utility. You see the problems, but also the solutions, and you harness creativity, dedication, and persistence to overcome the challenges. Your communication with others is based in empathy and compassion, and you thrive in a fast-paced environment. You have high standards and want people to be treated fairly and respectfully, no matter the allegation or circumstance.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
A juris doctorate degree from an accredited law school.
At least 5 years of experience as a lawyer with admission to practice before the highest court of any state or the Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire or Rhode Island.
Must be admitted (by the time of duty) to the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts.
Must be a U.S. citizen or have a work authorization.
Exceptional research, writing and trial skills.
Familiarity with federal habeas corpus or other post-conviction litigation.
Prior criminal, capital, and/or appellate work.
Experience using Microsoft Word, Microsoft Teams, Adobe Acrobat, Excel and other technology to review, process, and organize large amounts of information.
Experience working with diverse groups of people, such as economically disadvantaged people, people with emotional or mental health challenges, and those from disenfranchised communities.
The ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
The ability to keep confidences and to protect relevant legal privileges.
The desire to work, as part of a team, for the benefit of those accused of committing federal crimes.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Experience in criminal defense or federal courts.
The ability to handle Compassionate Release cases and be a resource on those case within the office and to CJA Attorneys.
Strong computer and technological skills.
Considerable resourcefulness, initiative, creativity, and compassion.
Spanish fluency.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
Starting salary for the Assistant Federal Public Defender – Research and Writing Specialist will be set commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the applicant, JSP- 9/1 to JSP- 15/10, currently yielding $61,268 to $176,200 per annum.
How to Apply
Applicants must send an e-mail titled “Assistant Federal Public Defender – Research and Writing Specialist” with a single Adobe .pdf document which includes: A Cover Letter; A Resume. Form AO-78 (found at https://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/ao078.pdf); and A Writing Sample (10-20 pages) Send all items listed above to HRBoston@fd.org. *No Calls Please. Applicants who apply without submitting all four documents will not be considered. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by November 7, 2022. The selected candidate will be subject to a background check or investigations and subsequent favorable suitability determination for employment. We are an equal opportunity employer.142 total views, 0 today