Assistant Federal Public Defender

Court Name/Organization Texas Eastern Federal Public Defender

Overview of the Position An Assistant Federal Defender represents clients charged with federal criminal offenses and clients involved in other matters covered under the Criminal Justice Act. The position may require travel for investigation, litigation, and training. Federal Public Defender employees may not engage in the private practice of law.

Location Sherman, TX

Opening and Closing Dates 02/04/2026 - 03/04/2026

Appointment Type Permanent

Salary Not specified

The Federal Public Defender for the Eastern District of Texas is now accepting applications for one full-time Assistant Federal Public Defender to be stationed in Sherman, Texas. The Office of the Federal Defender operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. § 3006A, to provide representation in federal criminal matters in the federal courts.

The successful applicant will have an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for integrity. Applicant must also possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, staff, colleagues, and other individuals that they will come in contact with as part of their employment.

Experience in handling federal criminal cases is preferred.

An Assistant Federal Defender must be a graduate of an accredited law school, admitted to practice in good standing before a state bar, and licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including but not limited to FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check.

Preference will be given to applicants with Federal criminal law experience that are current Federal Judiciary employees.

Salary dependent upon qualifications and experience, but comparable to that of Assistant U.S. Attorneys. This position is excepted service and does not carry the tenure rights of the competitive Civil Service. Benefits include health and life insurance, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. This position is subject to mandatory Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit) participation for payment of net pay.

The Federal Public Defender for the Eastern District of Texas is now accepting applications for one full-time Assistant Federal Public Defender to be stationed in Sherman, Texas. The Office of the Federal Defender operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. § 3006A, to provide representation in federal criminal matters in the federal courts.

Qualified persons are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a letter of interest and resume listing at least three professional references no later than March 4, 2026, to  . Legal experience should be described in detail. The start date of this position is contingent upon availability of funds. Please, no telephone inquiries. Position open until filled.

The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.