Careers - Federal Public Defender

Current Openings

Careers

A career with the Federal Public Defender is one of the most rewarding experiences you will have in your legal career. Learn more about the benefits of working at our office.

The Federal Public Defender Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or age, are encouraged to apply.

Current Openings

For a detailed description of the position you want to view, please click on the name from the list below

Federal Public Defender for the District of Puerto Rico

The United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit is accepting applications for the position of Federal Public Defender for the District of Puerto Rico. The term of appointment is four years. The current annual salary is $183,500.

The Federal Public Defender provides federal criminal defense to individuals unable to afford counsel. The defender supervises a staff of more than 50 people, including trial lawyers, an appellate unit, investigators, and support personnel. The defender is also responsible for providing training to the panel of lawyers who take indigent federal appointments. The office is headquartered in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

To be qualified for appointment, an applicant must:

(1) be a member in good standing in the bar of the state in which the applicant is admitted to practice; (2) have a minimum of five years of criminal practice experience, preferably with significant federal trial experience, which demonstrates an ability to provide zealous representation of consistently high quality to criminal defendants, or other comparable experience; (3) have the ability to effectively administer the office; (4) have a reputation for integrity; and (5) have a commitment to the representation of those unable to afford counsel.

In applying for the position of Federal Public Defender for the District of Puerto Rico, all applicants should be aware that the Federal Public Defender Office (FPDO) will serve not only as a traditional law office representing individual defendants, but also as a resource center for all practicing federal defense attorneys. It is envisioned that the FPDO will provide regularly scheduled training programs for defense counsel and will serve as a source of advice and counsel to all defense attorneys both on an individual and a group basis. The Federal Public Defender will also be expected to work with other federal defenders nationally in order to coordinate common strategies for dealing with evolving issues in federal criminal law. All applicants should have a demonstrated commitment to indigent criminal defense and an ability to work with people of diverse cultural backgrounds.

A Merit Screening Committee will screen all applications to find the best qualified person presently available for this position.

An application form may be obtained from the Court’s website at www.ca1.uscourts.gov. Please email completed applications to ca01_chjobs@ca1.uscourts.gov. Please direct any questions to:

Susan J. Goldberg, Circuit Executive
Office of the Circuit Executive
John Joseph Moakley U.S. Courthouse
1 Courthouse Way, Suite 3700
Boston, MA 02210
Phone: 617-748-9614
Email: ca01_chjobs@ca1.uscourts.gov

Completed applications must be received no later than Tuesday, April 11, 2023. Employment is contingent upon a successful FBI background check. The FPDO does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age (40 years and over), or disability. More information about the District of Puerto Rico FPDO can be found at https://pr.fd.org/.

Litigation Support & Discovery Coordination Paralegal (Boston, MA)

THE POSITION: The Federal Public Defender Office for the Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island is hiring a full-time Litigation Support and Discovery Coordination Paralegal in the Boston, Massachusetts office. Our Preference is to hire a highly skilled Paralegal who can handle high volume data cases to process and enhance case workflow. This announcement is open until February 13, 2023.

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 humane outcomes 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: You are a trusted, reliable, individual with a heart for public service. You put the client first while standing on your values, your personal and professional ethics, and your professionalism. You use sound judgment to carry out your responsibilities. You appreciate the importance of diversity.

You always partner with other members of the office, seek out the opinions of your colleagues, and love to work as a team. You are candid in your advice, but respectful of others. You don’t just recognize problems but identify solutions. You are a skilled writer and researcher. You harness your creativity, legal acumen, and writing skills to overcome difficult problems. Above all, you maintain your high standards while treating others with empathy and understanding.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Must be a high school graduate or equivalent and have at least three years of general experience.

Must know Windows PCs and have a high level of Windows computer skills.

Must be proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), Windows file system, knowledge of various file formats, audio and video file editing/conversion and text file editing is required.

The successful applicant will be detail oriented, have strong organizational skills, and be able to set priorities and meet critical deadlines.

The successful applicant will possess the ability to work in a team environment and communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

The successful applicant will also have a customer service orientation and exceptional end user communication skills.

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 write and speak clearly.

The ability to keep confidences and to protect relevant legal privileges.

This position requires the candidate to work in a leadership capacity among the paralegals and legal assistants by providing exceptional technical skills.

The desire to work, as part of a team, for the benefit of those accused of committing federal crimes.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

A Bachelor’s or advanced degree from an accredited college or university in computer technology, information management or a related field is preferred.

Experience with Adobe Acrobat Pro and litigation support software, e.g., CaseMap, Trial Director, Eclipse, Logikcull, Relativity, IPRO or their equivalents, is preferred.

Experience with other law office IT, litigation support software applications, law enforcement digital technology and computer forensics is highly desirable.

Experience with digital data extraction from computers and mobile devices (e.g. Cellebrite).

Experience formatting legal pleadings, using Microsoft Word and/or Adobe to create tables of contents and tables of authorities.

Experience assembling documents and appendices.

Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis.

Familiarity with legal citation guides like the Bluebook.

Familiarity with the rules and protocols used by federal district courts and federal courts of appeal A curiosity to learn new systems and different office technology.

Considerable resourcefulness, initiative, creativity, and compassion. Spanish fluency.

WHAT A LITIGATION SUPPORT AND COORDINATION DISCOVERY PARALEGAL DOES:

The Litigation Support and Discovery Coordination Paralegal would provide workflow and technical litigation support (e.g. case management, electronic discovery, document management, electronic courtroom presentations, and Clemency/Parole Board Hearing video presentations). Candidates should possess the ability to provide highly skilled litigation support and discovery specialist, receiving, processing, organizing, indexing, and formatting discovery to assist trial and appellate teams in using the material for case preparation, trial, direct appeals, habeas, and clemency. Candidates should have experience with creating document databases, indexes, transcripts, and images in electronic case management tools such as Eclipse, Trial Director, CaseMap, and other litigation support applications. Candidates will need to show aptitude in administering databases, processing data and electronic files, and performing OCR and transfers to various file formats.

Candidates need to be willing to assist paralegals and attorneys with the production of discovery to clients, experts, and other team members as necessary. Candidates will provide support and problem resolution for all discovery related issues and software applications. Other duties may be assigned at the discretion of the Federal Defender.

This is a unique position in our organization, reporting to the Federal Defender or the Administrative Officer and working in close coordination with the CSA. This position requires the candidate to work in a leadership capacity among the paralegals and legal assistants. However, more than one candidate may be selected from this posting.

Performs general case preparation as directed by the Federal Defender, the Assistant Federal Defender, or the Administrative Officer.

Work with the litigation teams to develop and recommend appropriate strategies to meet the litigation needs of each individual case and determine specific requirements for discovery and third-party evidence collection, review, analysis, production, and presentation of case materials.

Work closely with the litigation team to understand substantive issues of the case so that the most effective tools can be identified and used.

Develop and utilize specific procedures, tools, and techniques to ensure quality control is maintained throughout the litigation process, utilizing good project managements practices that include using alternative and adaptive processes that allow for learning and correction.

Act as a discovery manager to understand the volume, format and content of discovery being received to assist the litigation team in selecting the proper tool to host, review, and analyze, and use the discovery material.

Apply knowledge of the various aspects of litigation support dealing with electronic discovery including, but not limited to, use of Early Case Assessment (ECA) tools. Keyword searching, concept searching, deduplication, document clustering, email threading, intelligent foldering, native file review, and production.

Apply knowledge of the various aspects of litigation support dealing with courtroom presentations including, but not limited to, the use of courtroom presentation software, timeline and diagramming applications, and ability to set up and operate audio/video equipment.

Exercises good judgment and discretion, and perform other tasks as assigned.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: Starting salary for the Litigation Support and Discovery Coordination Paralegal position will be set commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the applicant, JSP-11/3-JSP 14/3, currently yielding $82,919 to $139,657 per annum.

HOW TO APPLY: Applicants must send an e-mail titled “Litigation Support and Discovery Coordination Paralegal” with:

A Cover Letter;
A Resume and Three References;
Form AO-78 (found at https://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/ao078.pdf)
Send all items listed above to HRBoston@fd.org.

Assistant Federal Public Defender (Concord, NH)

THE POSITION:

The Federal Public Defender Office for the Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island is hiring an experienced trial attorney to be full-time Assistant Federal Public Defender (AFPD) in its Concord, New Hampshire office. The successful applicant will be selected through a nation- wide search. All eligible attorneys interested in this position are encouraged to apply.

The AFPD position requires managing cases at various stages of litigation; preparing pleadings, briefs, and motions; appearing on behalf of clients in court hearings and at other related proceedings; developing litigation strategies; meeting with clients, experts, witnesses, and family members; and performing other duties as assigned. The AFPD will work to uphold every person’s right to be presumed innocent; receive a vigorous defense; and, if convicted, receive a fair sentence. They will advocate for humane sentences by collaborating with teams of investigators, paralegals, mitigation specialists, and other staff to develop mitigation evidence and to present judges with developed views of our clients and their lives, not merely their charges. This position requires some travel throughout our district and occasional out-of-district travel. The AFPD primarily represents indigent individuals charged in federal district court with committing federal criminal offenses. The AFPD also represents clients on appeal before the circuit court, in post-conviction proceedings, and as grand jury or trial witnesses. The AFPD reports directly to the Federal Public Defender or another designated supervising attorney.

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.

WHO WE ARE:

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 multitask effectively, have exceptional organizational skills, and are eager to learn new systems. You are a capable user of technology and understand its utility. You are committed to contributing to local, regional, and national trainings. You are willing to serve our Districts on committees that impact system change. 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:

Experience using Microsoft Word, Microsoft Teams, Adobe Acrobat, Excel, and other technology to review, process, and organize large amounts of information and data.

Must have a degree from an accredited law school.

Must be admitted to practice and in good standing before the highest court of any state or the Districts of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, or New Hampshire.

Must be admitted (by the time of duty) to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire.

Must be a U.S. citizen or have a work authorization.

Experience working with diverse groups of people, such as economically disadvantaged people, people with emotional or mental health challenges, and those from disenfranchised communities.

Prior Criminal Defense experience serving adults.

Familiarity with federal habeas corpus or other post-conviction litigation, capital, and/or appellate work.

The ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. The ability to write and speak clearly.

The ability to keep confidences and to protect relevant legal privileges.

The ability to travel.

The desire to work, as part of a team, to benefit 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 or any other second language.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Starting salary for the Assistant Federal Public Defender – will be set commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the applicant, JSP-9/1 to JSP-15/10, currently yielding $64,251 to $183,500 per annum.

HOW TO APPLY:

Applicants must send an e-mail titled “Assistant Federal Public Defender” with a single Adobe .pdf document which includes:

A Cover Letter;
A Resume and Three References;
Form AO-78 (found at https://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/ao078.pdf)
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 February 10, 2023. 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.

Assistant Federal Public Defender (Providence, RI)

THE POSITION:

The Federal Public Defender Office for the Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island is hiring an experienced trial attorney to be full-time Assistant Federal Public Defender (AFPD) in its Providence, Rhode Island office. The successful applicant will be selected through a nation-wide search. All eligible attorneys interested in this position are encouraged to apply.

WHAT WE DO:

WHO WE ARE:

WHO YOU ARE:

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Experience using Microsoft Word, Microsoft Teams, Adobe Acrobat, Excel, and other technology to review, process, and organize large amounts of information and data.

Must have a degree from an accredited law school.

Must be admitted to practice and in good standing before the highest court of any state or the Districts of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, or New Hampshire.

Must be admitted (by the time of duty) to the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island.

Must be a U.S. citizen or have a work authorization.

Experience working with diverse groups of people, such as economically disadvantaged people, people with emotional or mental health challenges, and those from disenfranchised communities.

Prior Criminal Defense experience serving adults.

Familiarity with federal habeas corpus or other post-conviction litigation, capital, and/or appellate work.

The ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. The ability to write and speak clearly.

The ability to keep confidences and to protect relevant legal privileges.

The ability to travel.

The desire to work, as part of a team, to benefit 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 or any other second language.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Starting salary for the Assistant Federal Public Defender – will be set commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the applicant, JSP-9/1 to JSP-15/10, currently yielding $64,251 to $183,500 per annum.

HOW TO APPLY:

Applicants must send an e-mail titled “Assistant Federal Public Defender” with a single Adobe .pdf document which includes:

A Cover Letter;
A Resume;
Three References;
Form AO-78 (found at https://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/ao078.pdf)
Send all items listed above to HRBoston@fd.org.

Investigator (Boston, MA)

THE POSITION:

The Federal Public Defender Office for the Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island is hiring a full-time defense Investigator for its Rhode Island, office. The successful applicant will be selected through a nation-wide search. All eligible applicants interested in this position are encouraged to apply.

As an Investigator you will assist in determining the scope, timing, and direction of investigation. Review, analyze, and summarize information and case-related documents using various technology. Use computer hardware and software to write reports, create databases, and produce graphics and videos. Present information in written and verbal form to attorneys and other defense team members. Communicate openly and empathically with the accused client, the client’s family, and case-related witnesses. Locate witnesses and conduct interviews, including defense witnesses, prosecution witnesses, and expert witnesses. Assist in preparing clients and witnesses for testimony. Arrange witness travel and logistics. Locate, view, and/or retrieve relevant materials and objects for use as evidence.

Photograph, video, or otherwise document, persons, places, and things for pretrial, trial, and sentencing litigation. Investigate the backgrounds of clients and case-related witnesses, including for educational, medical, psychological, familial, and criminal history related information. Assist attorneys in pretrial, trial, and sentencing proceedings. Give sworn testimony and asses the testimony and credibility of other witnesses. Create sentencing videos or written submissions meant to lessen the client’s sentence or other exposure. You may also be asked to help assemble mock juries and research the backgrounds of trial related jury pools. You are expected to work closely with each assigned case team to support every aspect of zealous representation.

WHAT WE DO:

WHO WE ARE:

WHO YOU ARE:

You are a trusted, reliable, and efficient Investigator who is eager to partner with members of the defense team so the office can provide exceptional legal services. You multitask effectively, have exceptional organizational skills, and are eager to learn new systems. You are a capable user of technology and understand its utility. You are an effective communicator and build relationships with internal and external stakeholders. You are comfortable writing memos when necessary. You complete your documentation timely and thoroughly. You are self-directed and have exceptional discretion. You see the problems, but also the solutions, and you harness creativity, dedication, curiosity 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 are comfortable working closely with a diverse set of clients (often in jail and prison settings) and their families. You have high standards and want people to be treated fairly and respectfully, no matter the allegation or circumstance. You have the capacity and flexibility to travel inside and outside of our region. You are committed to achieving case goals beyond standard hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Experience using Microsoft Word, Microsoft Teams, Adobe Acrobat, Excel, iPro and other technology to review, process, and organize large amounts of information.

Must have a college degree or the equivalent.

At least three years of investigative experience, criminal justice, or comparable experience.

Must be a U.S. citizen or have a work authorization.

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 write and speak clearly.

The ability to keep confidences and to protect relevant legal privileges.

The ability to demonstrate cultural competency.

Experience or interest in working with marginalized communities.

The ability to have strong computer and technological skills.

Considerable resourcefulness, initiative, creativity, curiosity and compassion.

The desire to work, as part of a team, for the benefit of those accused of committing federal crimes.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Spanish fluency.

Experience with large data cases and the ability to use, or learn to use, eDiscovery software.

The use of Cellebrite or Cellhawk is a plus.

Specialized skills related to forensic evidence.

Specialized skills related to digital forensic evidence and law enforcement surveillance tools.

Specialized skills in accounting, healthcare billing procedures, taxes, audits, or financial crimes.

Skilled at navigating various types of social media.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Starting salary for the Investigator will be set commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the applicant, JSP-11/1 to JSP-14/10, currently yielding $77,738 to $170,205 per annum.

HOW TO APPLY:

Applicants must send an e-mail titled “Investigator” with a single Adobe .pdf document which includes:

A Cover Letter;
A Resume; and
Form AO-78 (found at https://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/ao078.pdf)
Send all items listed above to HRBoston@fd.org.

*No Calls Please. Applicants who apply without submitting all three documents will not be considered. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by January 30, 2023. 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.

Paralegal (Boston, MA)

THE POSITION:

The Federal Public Defender Office for the Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island is hiring a Paralegal in the Boston, Massachusetts office. The successful applicant will be selected through a nation-wide search. All eligible paralegals interested in this position are encouraged to apply. More than one position may be fulfilled.

As a Paralegal, you will work collaboratively with a team of Assistant Federal Public Defenders, Investigators, Paralegals and Legal Assistants. Paralegals provide support services to staff attorneys. General duties include obtaining legal, medical, and educational records, assisting with case preparation and file management, managing, reviewing, and summarizing discovery, drafting legal correspondence, assisting attorneys at hearings, and trials, meeting with clients and their families, litigation support and preparing pleadings. This position is best suited for someone with experience with voluminous eDiscovery, including knowledge in the investigation of electronic storage and communications to uncover evidence of activities that can be used to support or discredit a criminal case. This position requires a basic knowledge of the operation of a computer, how files are stored on fixed and removable media, and how to use machine language commends to access a computer’s hard drive. The paralegal should also be trained in the retrieval of information from smartphones and how to use the necessary tools to achieve case goals. Knowledge of investigating computer hard drives from deleted information, searching for emails on personal computers and servers, and tracing the paths of emails, files and documents are a plus. This position requires travel.

WHAT WE DO:

WHO WE ARE:

WHO YOU ARE:

In addition to exceptional paralegal skills, you have a minimum of 3 years of experience as a paralegal. You are a trusted, reliable, and efficient paralegal who is eager to partner with members of the defense team so the office can provide exceptional legal services. You multitask 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, curiosity, and persistence to overcome 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:

High level of proficiency with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Microsoft Teams, Adobe Acrobat, iPro, dt search, eDiscovery review and organization software, Excel, and other technology to review, process, and organize large amounts of information with an emphasis on forensic discovery including basic operation various types of computers, and experience in how to retrieve information from smartphones and how to use the necessary tools to access a computer’s hard drive.

Must have a degree or certificate from an accredited college or university in paralegal or forensic studies.

Must be a U.S. citizen or have a work authorization.

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 write and speak clearly.

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.

Must be able to travel.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Experience in criminal defense or federal courts.

The ability to have strong computer and technological skills as listed above.

Considerable resourcefulness, initiative, creativity, and compassion.

Spanish fluency.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Starting salary for a paralegal will be commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the applicant, JSP-11/3 to JSP-14/3, currently yielding $79,070.00 to $133,174.00 per annum.

HOW TO APPLY:

Applicants must send an e-mail titled “Mitigation Specialist” with a single Adobe .pdf document which includes:
A Cover Letter;
A Resume; and
Form AO-78 (found at https://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/ao078.pdf)
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 January 27, 2023. 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.

Mitigation Specialist - Social Worker (Boston, MA)

THE POSITION:

The Federal Public Defender Office for the Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island is hiring a full-time Mitigation Specialist in the Boston, Massachusetts office. The successful applicant will be selected through a nation-wide search. All eligible applicants interested in this position are encouraged to apply.

As a Mitigation Specialist you will help our clients share their life experiences. This work is crucial to pretrial release plans, negotiations, trial strategy, sentencing outcomes and re-entry plans. The Mitigation Specialist will build trust with clients, families, and other life-history witnesses. The Mitigation Specialist will gather and digest historical records, formally interview and informally consult with both laypeople and specialized professionals; connect clients with needed services; and collaborate with attorneys and investigators. Our Mitigation Specialist will find, organize, maintain, and update a database of community service providers relevant to the needs of the communities we serve. Travel within all three of our Districts and occasionally elsewhere will be required. You may sometimes be asked to testify in court.

WHAT WE DO:

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:

WHO YOU ARE:

You are a trusted, reliable, and efficient Mitigation Specialist 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 are an effective communicator and build relationships with internal and external stakeholders. 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. Be comfortable working closely with a diverse set of clients (often in jail and prison settings) and their families. You have high standards and want people to be treated fairly and respectfully, no matter the allegation or circumstance.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Must have a master’s degree in social work or social services.
At least three years of experience investigating and developing mitigation evidence and/or five years of clinical experience.
Must be a U.S. citizen or have a work authorization.
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 manage several different cases and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
The ability to write and speak clearly.
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.
Engage in community outreach in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire and maintain quality community relationships to achieve our mission.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

The ability to demonstrate cultural competency.
Experience or interest in working with marginalized communities.
Strong computer and technological skills.
Considerable resourcefulness, initiative, creativity, and compassion.
A desire to help build, recruit, and supervise a robust multidisciplinary internship program.
Spanish fluency.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Starting salary for the Mitigation Specialist will be set commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the applicant, JSP 11/01 to JSP- 14/10, currently yielding $74,129 to $162,305 per annum.

HOW TO APPLY:

Applicants must send an e-mail titled “Mitigation Specialist” with a single Adobe .pdf document which includes:
A Cover Letter;
A Resume; and
Form AO-78 (found at https://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/ao078.pdf)
Send all items listed above to HRBoston@fd.org.
*No Calls Please. Applicants who apply without submitting all three documents will not be considered. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by November 4, 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.

Administrative Assistant to Federal Public Defender (Boston, MA)

THE POSITION:
The Federal Public Defender Office for the Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island is hiring a full-time Administrative Assistant to the Federal Public Defender in the Boston, Massachusetts office. This announcement is open until filled with priority consideration given to applications received by September 23, 2022.

WHAT WE DO:

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 humane sentences 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:

You are a trusted, reliable, and efficient assistant who is eager to partner with members of the defense team so the office can provide exceptional legal services. You multitask 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 EXPERIENCE:

Experience using Microsoft Word, Microsoft Teams, Adobe Acrobat, Excel and other technology to review, process, and organize large amounts of information.

Must be a high school graduate or equivalent with at least three years of legal secretarial experience.

Experience must be in either criminal or appellate litigation.

Experience using a multiline telephone system to receive, screen, and refer calls.

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 write and speak clearly.

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 EXPERIENCE:

Experience as a legal administrative assistant or a legal secretary assisting criminal defense teams.

Experience editing, proofreading, and preparing documents for filing in the federal district courts and the federal courts of appeals.

Experience formatting legal pleadings and using Microsoft Word to create tables of contents and tables of authorities.

Experience assembling documents and appendices. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis. Familiarity with legal citation guides like the Bluebook.

Familiarity with the rules and protocols used by federal district courts and federal courts of appeal.

A curiosity to learn new systems and different office technology.

Considerable resourcefulness, initiative, creativity, and compassion.

Spanish fluency.

WHAT AN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO THE FEDERAL PUBLIC
DEFENDER DOES:

Receives, screens, and refers telephone calls.

Communicates with clients (many of whom are incarcerated) and their families regarding court dates
and attorney conferences.

Maintains client confidences and protects the attorney-client privilege.

Screens incoming mail and routes it to the appropriate destination.

Prepares outgoing correspondence based either on general instruction or a prescribed format.

Arranges for mail services and ensures outgoing mail is correctly processed.

Maintains attorney calendars, sets appointments, and arranges meetings and conferences.

Reminds attorneys of calendar commitments, and informs participants of date, time, and location.

Proofreads and edits drafts of legal documents and, once finalized, assembles court filings and appendices for electronic submission to the appropriate court.

Formats legal documents, creates tables of contents and tables of authorities, and prepares appendices before filing in the federal court of appeals or the federal district court.

Creates and organizes attorney case files in electronic or hard copy form.

Closes files when cases are complete.

Arranges Defender’s schedule and court calendar, providing daily updates. Assists in the planning of meetings and conferences for the Defender.

Manages business travel itineraries for the Defender and/or Supervisors, including plane reservations, auto rental and hotel lodging in compliance with all applicable rules and regulations.

Communicates with court personnel, staff at the United States Attorney’s Office, and other stakeholders in the criminal justice system.

Exercises good judgment and discretion, and performs other tasks as assigned.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Starting salary for the Administrative Assistant position will be set commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the applicant, JSP-9/1 to JSP-12/10, currently yielding $61,268 to $115,510 per annum.

HOW TO APPLY:

Applicants must send an e-mail titled “Administrative Assistant” with:

A Cover Letter;

A Resume; and

Form AO-78 (found at https://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/ao078.pdf)

Send all items listed above to HRBoston@fd.org.

Diversity Fellowship (Boston, MA)

Recognizing the critical importance of diversity to a legal services program whose clients are primarily people of color, the Defender Services Program has long sought to increase the participation of attorneys from groups traditionally underrepresented in the legal profession.

Supported by the federal judiciary’s emphasis on workforce diversity to engender public trust and improve performance, the goal of this Fellowship Program is to enhance the quality of representation provided for persons unable to afford counsel in federal criminal proceedings by increasing the number of diverse attorneys capable of providing such representation. Diversity includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, and socioeconomic status. Diversity among CJA counsel supports the cultural competency necessary to meet the needs of a diverse clientele and can lead to better case outcomes by fostering greater trust on the part of CJA clients.

The Fellowship Program will achieve this goal by creating a pipeline of diverse attorneys qualified to join FDOs and CJA panels.

To learn more and apply, please visit diversityfellowship.fd.org.

Lindsay & Nelson Fellows

Each year, the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts selects approximately 5-6 Lindsay Fellows who have shown leadership potential and academic ability to intern at the Court.

Check out more information here https://www.mad.uscourts.gov/outreach/lindsay.htm

School-Year Internships

More information coming soon.

Paused - Summer 2023 Internships

The Summer 2023 Law Student Internship has been temporarily suspended by the Federal Public Defender Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. Please check back at a later date to see what new opportunities are available.

The Position

The Federal Public Defender Office for the Districts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island is proud to sponsor a summer criminal defense internship for rising 2L and 3L law students interested in public service. Our office offers a unique and up-close opportunity to learn about the federal criminal process and public defense in a friendly, inclusive, and collegial environment. One or more internship positions are available in each of our three offices (Boston MA, Concord NH, and Providence RI). Our goal is to provide first-hand experience in federal public defense and guide students who wish to build public interest careers.

What We Do

The Federal Public Defender Office is a publicly-funded law office that provides legal representation to persons charged with committing federal crimes who cannot afford to hire an attorney. We are appointed to represent the accused upon arrest and through the completion of all appeals, including the U.S. Supreme Court and federal habeas corpus review. Charges we defend against include economic crimes, child pornography crimes, drug offenses, weapons offenses, immigration offenses, and violent crimes.

Who We Are

We are committed to cultivating a culture of acceptance and connectedness that honors the diverse backgrounds of the people we represent. We are an equal opportunity employer. We employ attorneys, paralegals, defense investigators, information technology specialists, and legal assistants. We work together to uphold every person’s right to be presumed innocent and to a fair sentence if convicted. We provide a vigorous defense at trial and, if the defendant is convicted, on appeal. We advocate for humane sentences by developing mitigation evidence and presenting judges with fully developed views of our clients as people, not criminals.

Who You Are

We value diversity and a commitment to equality, and we believe better 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 in terms of your culture, ethnicity, education, opinions, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, veteran’s status, religion, disability, economic status, and sexual orientation. We are interested in your talent, intelligence, dedication, persistence, and desire to see all people treated fairly and respectfully, no matter the allegation or circumstance.

The Summer Internship Program

The summer internship program will inform students’ understanding of the federal criminal justice system and build skills to best represent our clients. Interns at the Federal Public Defender Office may engage in a wide range of activities, including:

Attending court and shadowing attorneys.
Researching and drafting legal memoranda and motions.
Helping to develop trial and sentencing strategy.
Assisting in our appellate, habeas, and certiorari practice.
Assisting in investigations, including collecting factual and mitigating information.
Reviewing discovery.

Each intern will be assigned to a lawyer mentor. Substantive editing feedback will be provided to help each student develop at least one piece of written work into a writing sample. Preferably, students will be able to devote 40 hours per week for at least nine weeks, beginning June 1, 2023. While each student will be based in one of our three offices, opportunities may be available for students to attend hearings and trials in other districts. Students are required to abide by the FPDO’s confidentiality policy, and to act at all times in the best interest of the FPDO’s clients.

This is an unpaid internship; however, we will work with your schools to meet criteria for credit or financial support, if available. Feedback will be provided along with a formal evaluation, if requested.

How to Apply

A one-page cover letter that (a) explains your interest in the Federal Public Defender Office; (b) lists any criminal law classes or clinics you have taken; and (c) addresses any personal experiences you have had in the criminal justice system.
A one-page resume.
A writing sample (no more than five pages, please).
Two references or letters of recommendation.
Specify which of our office(s) you have applied to (Boston, Concord, and/or Providence).

As we typically hire multiple interns to work in Boston, that office reviews applications in two phases. The first phase of review begins in September. This portion of our hiring is usually done by October. We reserve at least one slot for a second phase of review that begins in December. Our hiring is usually complete by mid-January.

Other Opportunities

Visit fd.org for employment opportunities in other Federal Defender offices.

Contact Us

Massachusetts

51 Sleeper Street, 5th Floor
Boston, MA 02210
Phone: (617) 223-8061
Fax: (617)639-9023

Western Massachusetts

116 Pleasant Street, Suite 430
Easthampton, MA 01027
Phone: (857) 331-2118

Fax: (617) 639-9023

New Hampshire

22 Bridge Street
Concord, NH 03301
Phone: (603) 226-7360
Fax: (603) 371-9415

Rhode Island

10 Weybosset Street, 3rd Floor
Providence, RI 02903
Phone: (401) 528-4281
Fax: (401) 867-2814