Research and Writing Specialist-El Paso

Position Description
Position Announcement 26-10

RESEARCH AND WRITING SPECIALIST

Office of the Federal Public Defender

Western District of Texas (El Paso)

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Texas is accepting applications for a research and writing specialist to be stationed in the El Paso office. The Federal Public Defender operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. 3006A, to provide defense services in federal criminal cases and related matters by appointment from the court to individuals unable to afford counsel.

Duties

Drafting motions, memoranda, briefs, and petitions to be filed in the U.S. District Court.

Consulting with attorneys on legal issues arising in discovery, motion practice, trial, sentencing, and appeal.

Performing general paralegal duties and other duties as assigned.

The research and writing specialist is not an assistant federal public defender and does not sign pleadings or make court appearances. The position requires occasional travel.

Selection Criteria

Strong legal research and word processing skills, ability to analyze legal issues from complex records, and write clearly and concisely.

Established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and reputation for integrity.

Ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, and court and agency personnel.

Team-oriented with skills for collaboration, strategic litigation, compassionate representation, and unique approaches to the issues affecting our clients.

Appellate writing experience or experience in handling federal criminal cases is preferred.

Salary and Benefits
The starting salary will be commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the applicant, within a range from $74,678 (JSP-11, Step 1) to $147,945 (JSP-15, Step 1) per annum. The position is in the excepted service and does not carry the tenure rights of the competitive Civil Service. The position offers federal government employment benefits, including health and life insurance, retirement, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).

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