Federal

Assistant Federal Public Defender - Trial Unit

U.S. Courts ยท Judicial Branch
๐Ÿ“ Cincinnati, Ohio FD-00 $120,000 - $170,000/yr
Posted: Feb 10, 2026 Deadline: Mar 9, 2026 (Closes in 22 days days left)

About This Position

Our teams of attorneys, paralegals, investigators, office administrators, and information technology specialists effectively use interdisciplinary skill-sets to ensure compassionate and comprehensive representation centered on our clients and their needs. The Assistant Federal Public Defender in the Trial Unit will be an integral member of the Cincinnati team and must be completely committed to creative, passionate, and fierce advocacy on behalf of people who cannot afford representation.

Qualifications

The most important qualification for any position in our office is an unshakable commitment to skillfully helping those in need and the willingness and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment dedicated to that goal. Our office values people with a wide range of experience and perspectives and works to foster a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, openness, and humility that honors the people we represent. We seek team members who share those values. We are interested in applicants' talent, intelligence, dedication, and persistence, and desire to see that all people are treated fairly and respectfully - no matter the allegations they face or the circumstances leading to their need for the compassionate and dynamic advocacy we provide. A minimum of 3-5 years of experience defending criminal cases, with some federal experience, is preferred. Trial experience, strong research skills, the ability to write persuasively and compellingly, and excellent oral advocacy skills are required. The applicant must be able to work in a team environment, communicate clearly and effectively, exhibit strong organizational skills, and appropriately set priorities. Fluency in Spanish is a plus. Attorneys in the Office of the Federal Public Defender may not engage in the private practice of law.

Major Duties

The Assistant Federal Public Defender in the Trial Unit will provide zealous, professional, and strategic legal representation to clients charged with federal criminal offenses, at the trial level. Responsibilities include managing an extensive caseload with cases at varying stages of litigation; preparing pleadings, briefs and motions; developing litigation strategies; meeting with clients, experts, witnesses and family members; appearing on behalf of clients in court; and other duties as assigned.

Conditions of Employment

All application information is subject to verification. Appointment to the position is contingent upon a background investigation including an FBI fingerprint check. Employees of the Federal Defender are members of the judicial branch of government; they are considered 'at will' and can be terminated with or without cause.

Education

The successful applicant must be a graduate from an accredited law school and a member in good standing of the bar of any state or territory.

How You Will Be Evaluated

Applicants will be evaluated based upon their level of experience and answers to interview questions related to how they have and/or will handle the various aspects of criminal defense practice.

Additional Information

The Federal Public Defender for the Southern District of Ohio is an equal opportunity employer. We are an inclusive office and seek applications from a diverse group of qualified individuals. We provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.

How to Apply

Qualified applicants should submit a letter of interest, resume, two recent writing samples (limited to 10 pages each), and three professional references. All materials should be submitted in PDF format, to [email protected], by Monday, March 9,2026. Submissions that are incomplete or fail to follow the instructions above will not be considered.

Required Documents

Resume, cover letter, two recent writing samples, and three professional references.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Assistant Federal Public Defender - Trial Unit position at U.S. Courts?
The salary range for this position is $120,000 - $170,000/yr. This is a FD-00 position on the General Schedule pay scale. Actual pay may vary based on locality adjustments.
Where is the Assistant Federal Public Defender - Trial Unit job located?
This position is located in Cincinnati, Ohio. This is an on-site position.
What qualifications do I need?
The most important qualification for any position in our office is an unshakable commitment to skillfully helping those in need and the willingness and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment dedicated to that goal. Our office values people with a wide range of experience and perspectives and works to foster a culture of mutual res...
How do I apply for this position?
Apply through USAJobs.gov by clicking the 'Apply on USAJobs' button. You'll need a USAJobs account, a federal-style resume, and supporting documents. The deadline is Mar 9, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
No security clearance is required for this position.
What does FD-00 mean?
FD-00 refers to the General Schedule grade level. Higher grades require more experience and offer higher pay. Visit our GS Pay Scale page for full salary tables by grade and locality.
What benefits do federal employees receive?
Federal employees receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (FEHB), retirement through FERS, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, paid annual and sick leave, paid parental leave, life insurance, and student loan repayment programs.