FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER
POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
APPELLATE LEGAL ASSISTANT
MIAMI OFFICE
The Federal Public Defender for the Southern District of Florida is accepting applications for the full-time position of Appellate Legal Assistant in our Miami office. The Federal Public Defender, a branch of the United States Courts, is an Equal Opportunity Employer and operates under the authority of the Criminal Justice Act (18 U.S.C. § 3006A) to provide defense services to indigent persons in federal criminal cases.
Requirements: The successful applicant must be a high school graduate or equivalent and have at least two years general experience and at least 2 years of specialized experience; must have appellate criminal work experience. Candidates should possess strong analytical and organizational skills, proficiency in word processing, knowledge of criminal legal terminology; excellent communication skills and a professional demeanor with a demonstrated work history of dependability and responsibility.
Duties: The appellate legal assistant performs tasks such as the following: Performs the functions of a legal assistant to the Assistant Defender(s) utilizing advanced knowledge of legal terminology, word and information processing software. Has knowledge of appellate rules and filing requirements (preparation of notices, motions, petitions and briefs). Understands district and circuit court rules and protocols. Edits and proofreads initial drafts, transcribes dictation, performs cite checking and assembles copies with attachments for filing and mailing. Receives, screens, and refers telephone and in-person callers. Answers general inquiries based on knowledge of the defender organization’s activities and program operations and obtains information from others as requested by the Assistant Defender(s). Maintains correspondence control records. Prepares correspondence by either drafting from general instructions or typing in prescribed format. Prepares memoranda for signature by the Assistant Defender(s). Maintains calendars for the Assistant Defender(s), setting appointments as authorized. Arranges meetings and conferences, informing participants of date, time and location of meeting. Manages business travel for the Assistant Defender(s). Reminds the Assistant Defender(s) of appointments and commitments. Organizes case files for Assistant Defender(s) and is responsible for other case management functions as assigned, which may include: opening and closing files, keeping records related to in-court time expended on each case, recording future court appearances on the office master calendar and the personal calendars of Assistant Defender(s), and notifying clients of the
dates and times of court appearances and appointments with the Assistant Defender(s) and defense experts. Receives and routes incoming mail and deliveries. Arranges for courier or express mail services. Oversees outgoing mail. Performs other duties as assigned.
Selection Criteria: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or eligible to work in the United States. Applicants must have excellent proofreading and editing skills with a meticulous attention to detail. Applicants must also have computer literacy with a working knowledge of Word, WordPerfect, fast and accurate typing, filing skills, excellent organizational and written communication skills with demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with individuals and groups with varying experience and backgrounds. Working knowledge of legal terminology, court procedures and appellate experience necessary. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk are necessary and must be able to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
The selected candidate will be subject to a background check as a condition of employment.
Salary and Benefits: This is a full-time position, and federal salary and benefits apply. Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications of the applicant and will be based on the Judiciary Salary Plan; Grade 7 through Grade 9. This position is subject to mandatory Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit) participation of net pay.
How to Apply: No telephone calls please. Qualified persons may apply by submitting a letter of interest outlining experience, resume and two work references [send in PDF format as ONE attachment] to:
Raisa Gonzalez
Human Resources Specialist
Federal Public Defender’s Office
150 West Flagler Street, Suite 1500
Miami, Florida 33130
Or via e-mail to:
Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Hiring for this position is subject to the availability of funds in the final appropriation. Applications will be accepted until May 15, 2024. All responses will remain confidential.
The Federal Public Defender 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.