POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
ATTORNEY, FEDERAL CAPITAL HABEAS PROJECT
The Federal Capital Habeas Project, a program of the Federal Public Defender System, seeks an experienced capital habeas attorney to assist lawyers representing inmates in capital § 2255 proceedings in jurisdictions throughout the country. The Project was started in 2006 to provide litigation and other support to lawyers for the growing number of prisoners on federal death row.

Its aim is to ensure that all individuals sentenced to death in federal court who have completed their direct appeals receive representation consistent with the highest standards of the legal profession during post-conviction and clemency proceedings.
The new attorney will work closely with Director Ruth Friedman to identify, recruit and consult with lawyers for those under federal sentence of death who are in or entering § 2255 proceedings. Responsibilities will include assisting courts in the appointment of qualified counsel; consulting with appointed counsel in all aspects of the litigation at every stage of the process; developing model pleadings and other materials for widespread dissemination; and providing training and related educational opportunities for federal habeas teams. Project staff will also be expected to undertake direct representation of one or more prisoners in federal post-conviction proceedings.
The ideal candidate will have considerable experience in capital habeas litigation. This
includes not only excellent communication and writing skills but also a demonstrated ability to develop multi-faceted habeas strategy in the face of substantial challenges. The attorney should have a proven ability to work effectively with pro bono counsel. Some travel will be necessary. While the Project Director is located in the Federal Public Defender for the District of Maryland, ability to relocate to that jurisdiction is not a requirement. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Email applications are preferred. To be considered, please submit (1) a resume and (2) cover letter; (3) a writing sample; and (4) the names of three references to John Nidiry at John_Nidiry@fd.org or John Nidiry, Federal Capital Habeas Project, Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of Maryland, 6411 Ivy Lane, Suite 710, Greenbelt, Maryland 20770-4510. Applications will be accepted until position is filled. Interviewing is expected to begin in mid-December.