Assistant Federal Defender

Defender Association of Philadelphia•Philadelphia, PA

22d•Onsite

About The Position

The Federal Community Defender Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania is hiring one or more Assistant Federal Defenders (AFD) in the Capital Habeas Unit (CHU). The CHU represents indigent, death-sentenced prisoners in federal habeas corpus proceedings throughout the United States in all stages of litigation. CHU attorneys examine the records of their clients’ cases and do careful research and writing to support a wide variety of legal claims. They work with clients; undertake factual investigation; engage with experts; conduct evidentiary hearings; litigate appeals; and present oral argument in the federal courts. CHU attorneys are responsible for remaining current with developments in criminal and habeas corpus law and providing updates to legal staff; analyzing discovery materials; and assisting with the planning and implementation of investigation relating to both the guilt and sentencing phases of capital cases. CHU attorneys work collaboratively with each other and with paralegals, investigators, and administrative staff on their cases. CHU attorneys also work with members of the Office’s other practice groups (including the Non-Capital Habeas, Trial, Appeals, and Capital Trial Units) to provide the highest level of legal representation to the office’s clients. Candidates must have excellent analytic, research, and writing skills to fill the position of Assistant Federal Defender in the Capital Habeas Unit. Candidates should have prior experience in trial, appellate, or post-conviction criminal defense litigation, and prior habeas experience is preferred. Candidates ideally will have at least five years of criminal litigation experience. Candidates must possess a solid understanding of criminal law, criminal procedures, and evidence; have outstanding legal research and writing skills; and be able to analyze complex legal issues. Candidates also must be able to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, staff, government, and court personnel and must have a commitment to the representation of indigent defendants. Fluency in Spanish is highly desirable. The position requires the attorney to work in the office and will require travel throughout the United States.

Requirements

Law degree
Member of a state bar
Good standing with all federal and state bars
Excellent analytic, research, and writing skills
Solid understanding of criminal law, criminal procedures, and evidence
Ability to analyze complex legal issues
Ability to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, staff, government, and court personnel
Commitment to the representation of indigent defendants
Must be admitted in good standing before the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania and the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania
At least five years of criminal litigation experience