FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER

SOLICITATION OF APPLICATIONS

FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER

UNITED STATES COURTS OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CIRCUIT

The United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit is accepting applications from all qualified persons for the position of Federal Public Defender for the District of Columbia. The term of appointment is four years. The Federal Public Defender provides federal criminal defense services to individuals unable to afford counsel. An applicant must: (1) be a member in good standing of at least one state bar or the District of Columbia bar; (2) have been engaged in active criminal practice for a minimum of five years, preferably with significant federal criminal trial and appellate experience; (3) possess administrative expertise; (4) have a reputation for integrity, commitment to equal justice, and outstanding legal ability; and (5) have a commitment to the vigorous representation of those unable to afford counsel. Federal public defenders may not engage in the private practice of law and are subject to the judiciary financial disclosure requirements.

This position becomes available on September 22, 2026. The selection process will be confidential and competitive. Applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age (40 years and over), or disability unless such disability causes the applicant to be unable to perform the essential duties of the office. The Court’s Criminal Justice Act Panel Committee will screen all applications to find the best qualified person available for the position. The incumbent Federal Public Defender has applied for reappointment. While an appointment to additional terms is permitted, there is no right to reappointment.

Salary – The current authorized salary is $197,200.

Application Process – Submit a cover letter, resume, and a narrative statement to Spencer Hallett. The narrative statement must state why you are seeking the position, how you are qualified for the position, and any relevant special professional, occupational or other experience, including legal scholarship and writing, which should be considered. The entire submission must be in a single pdf attachment sent to FPD_Applicants@cadc.uscourts.gov no later than 5:00 pm on August 5, 2026.

THE UNITED STATES COURTS ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

• Company Name - UNITED STATES COURTS OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CIRCUIT
• City - WASHINGTON