FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER
Middle District of Tennessee
POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
Research & Writing Attorney
THE FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER is accepting applications for the position of research and writing
attorney. The federal defender organization 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.
A research and writing attorney must be: (1) a graduate of an accredited law school, and admitted
to practice in good standing before the highest court of a state; (2) be or become licensed to
practice in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee by the time of entrance on
duty; and to practice law in the State of Tennessee. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory
background investigation.
The research and writing attorney drafts motions, memoranda, petitions, and briefs to be filled in
the U.S. district court, the U.S. court of appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court. Consults with the
assistant defenders on legal issues arising in motion practice, evidentiary hearings, trials, and
appeals, and on general advice to clients.
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 personal integrity. Experience in handling federal criminal cases is
preferred.
The starting salary of a research and writing attorney is from grade JSP-9 to grade JSP-15. The
position is in the excepted service and does not carry the tenure rights of the competitive Civil
Service. The position does include regular Government employment benefits including health and
life insurance, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds
Transfer (direct deposit).
Qualified persons may apply by forwarding a letter of interest, résumé, list of references and a
representative writing sample. Send completed application by mail, fax or email to:
Sharon P. Ross, Administrative Officer
Office of the Federal Public Defender
810 Broadway, Suite 200
Nashville, Tennessee 37203
Fax (615) 736-5265
Email: Sharon_Ross @fd.org
Application Evaluation will begin March 29, 2010
NO TELEPHONE OR E-MAILS INQUIRIES
The Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer