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.
Summary
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
The salary of the successful applicant will be commensurate with the person's qualifications and years of experience. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit). The position offers federal employment benefits, including paid vacation, paid sick time, paid holidays, health insurance, life insurance, retirement plan, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401k). Part-time telework is available, consistent with office policy, court obligations, and position duties, but the applicant must reside in or be willing to relocate to the greater Cincinnati area.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
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.
The salary of the successful applicant will be commensurate with the person's qualifications and years of experience. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit). The position offers federal employment benefits, including paid vacation, paid sick time, paid holidays, health insurance, life insurance, retirement plan, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401k). Part-time telework is available, consistent with office policy, court obligations, and position duties, but the applicant must reside in or be willing to relocate to the greater Cincinnati area.
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.
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 OHS_employment@fd.org, by Monday, March 9,2026. Submissions that are incomplete or fail to follow the instructions above will not be considered.
The most qualified candidates will be selected for the first round of interviews, most likely to take place in late March. At least one more round of interviews will follow.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
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.
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 OHS_employment@fd.org, by Monday, March 9,2026. Submissions that are incomplete or fail to follow the instructions above will not be considered.
The most qualified candidates will be selected for the first round of interviews, most likely to take place in late March. At least one more round of interviews will follow.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
