Link to the Job

The Kansas Federal Public Defender (FPD) is accepting applications for an entry-level Assistant Federal Public Defender position in the Kansas City, Topeka, or Wichita office. The Kansas FPD provides legal representation to indigent clients in federal criminal cases and related matters. The FPD values hard work, diversity, teamwork, creativity, flexibility, and fairness.

The Job: This is an entry-level position that requires self-motivation, flexibility, and a good work ethic. There are four essential aspects to this position. First, the attorney will handle the misdemeanor dockets within Kansas (Ft. Riley, Ft. Leavenworth, McConnell Air Force Base, federal lands). Second, the attorney will handle motions to modify conditions of supervised release and motions to terminate supervised release. Third, the attorney will handle non-capital postconviction matters, including motions to reduce sentences (generally involving compassionate release and retroactive guidelines). Fourth, the attorney will handle the bulk of legal inquiries (phone calls and letters) from convicted persons and others. If time permits, the attorney may also participate in jury trials as a second (or third) chair, assist trial attorneys with legal research and writing, and handle revocations of supervised release.

Requirements. The successful applicant must:

• Have a strong academic background;
• Have a law degree from an accredited law school;
• Be licensed to practice and in good standing in at least one State or Washington, D.C.;
• Have a strong interest in indigent defense and federal criminal law;
• Possess above-average research and writing skills;
• Possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and court and agency personnel;
• Possess strong oral advocacy and interpersonal skills;
• Work effectively in a team and collaborative environment.

The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated ability to communicate and collaborate with other attorneys and support staff; to work well independently; to multi-task; to handle a larger caseload of less complex cases; and be motivated to help indigent clients at the pretrial, posttrial, and postconviction stages. Although this is labeled an entry-level position, experienced attorneys who want a change of pace and are interested in the job description are also encouraged to apply. Some travel within Kansas is required. Applicants must also be allowed to work in the United States