Assistant Federal Defender

Tennessee Eastern Federal Defender Services, Inc.

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Job Description

Overview of the Position We are hiring two full-time assistant federal defenders in our Greeneville office. Position Description Assistant federal defenders manage a full caseload, including preparing pleadings; reviewing discovery; coordinating case investigation; developing litigation strategies; meeting with clients; working with experts; appearing in court; and assisting CJA panel attorneys. Routine travel to detention facilities is required, including those located in Carter County and Washington County, TN; Laurel County, KY; and Washington County and Roanoke County, VA.

Requirements

Applicants must have a J.D. degree from an accredited law school; be an active member in good standing of a state bar (Tennessee bar not required but encouraged); and licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court (application may be pending at the time of hire). Applicants must have at least three years of criminal trial experience with strong writing and advocacy skills; knowledge of federal criminal trial practice and federal sentencing; a reputation for personal and professional integrity; a commitment to the representation of indigent defendants; and an ability to work well in a team environment. Applicants must also possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court and agency personnel. Proficiency in Spanish is a plus. Applicants must have a driver’s license and appropriate motor vehicle insurance. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or eligible to work in the United States. Employment will require a favorable background check. Assistant federal defenders may not engage in the private practice of law. Employee Benefits Salary is commensurate with years of experience and qualifications in accordance with the Defender Organization Classification System and federal defender pay levels. The current starting salary range is $76,748 to $180,078 annually. FDSET offers a generous benefits package, which includes paid vacation and sick leave, 11+ paid annual holidays, medical, dental, vision, life/AD&D, long-term disability, EAP, HSA/FSA, hospital, critical illness, accident, identity theft protection, and 401K retirement. FDSET provides medical (employee-only plans), dental, vision, basic life/AD&D, and long-term disability at no monthly premium cost to employees. A partial remote work week is available to employees after an initial probationary period. Miscellaneous Who We Are Federal Defender Services of Eastern Tennessee, Inc. (FDSET) stands on the front lines every day to keep people out of prison and halt state executions. Guided by our core values of compassion, courage, competency, creativity, and collaboration, we provide client-centered representation to those who need it most. Our clients are indigent defendants charged with federal offenses ranging from drug crimes to complex white-collar conspiracies, as well as individuals sentenced to death. Through holistic lawyering, we safeguard our clients’ constitutional rights while championing their dignity, humanity, and future at every stage of their case. We actively embrace diversity, cultivate inclusion, and foster a workplace grounded in fairness, flexibility, and shared purpose. We are united by a deep commitment to standing beside our clients in their most critical moments. FDSET is a nonprofit community defender organization funded by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, with offices in Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Greeneville. Each location has a trial unit, and our Knoxville office is also home to our Capital Habeas Unit—where we handle some of the most complex and high-stakes litigation in the federal system. The Place Nestled in the heart of the South, East Tennessee is a place where breathtaking landscapes meet vibrant community life. Framed by the rolling foothills of the Smoky Mountains and laced with miles of rivers and lakes, the region offers postcard-worthy views in every direction. Here, even the largest cities maintain a warm, small-town charm—yet surprise visitors with a dynamic culinary and cultural scene. Savor farm -to-table fare, soulful Southern classics, slow-smoked barbecue, and authentic international cuisine, all perfectly paired with locally crafted beers. Stroll through lively farmers markets, celebrate at year-round festivals, and enjoy performances in venues such as the historic Bijou Theatre or Niswonger Performing Arts Center, which feature Broadway productions, concerts, opera, ballet, and more. Explore award-winning history, science, and children’s museums or cheer on your favo

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