Federal Public Defender

Job Description

Summary

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit is accepting applications [under authority of 18 U.S.C. 3006A(g)(2)(A)] from all qualified persons for the position of Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Missouri headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. The incumbent Federal Public Defender will retire on December 31, 2026. The term of appointment is four years; annual salary will be equal to the salary of the U.S. Attorney for the district, currently $197,200.

Duties

The Federal Public Defender provides federal criminal defense services to individuals unable to afford counsel.

Conditions of Employment

Federal Public Defenders may not engage in the private practice of law and are subject to judiciary financial disclosure requirements. A background investigation is required.

How You Will Be Evaluated

We will review your resume and supporting documents to ensure you meet the basic qualification requirements. We will evaluate each applicant who meets the basic qualifications on the information provided and evaluate your relevant professional, educational, and work experiences as it relates to fundamental competencies, identified in the Qualifications section above, required for this position.

Education

Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school is required.

Additional Information

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

How to Apply

Application forms may be obtained from the Clerk of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri at www.mow.uscourts.gov, or the Circuit Executive's Office in St. Louis, Missouri by e-mail at CE8employment@ca8.uscourts.gov or by phone 314-244-2600. Applications should be submitted only by the applicant personally and should indicate the applicant's willingness to serve if selected. Applications should be submitted to Ms. Millie B. Adams, Circuit Executive, 111 South 10th Street, Suite 26.325, St. Louis, Missouri 63102-1116. The position will remain open until filled. The U.S. Courts are equal opportunity employers. Application must be received by July 15, 2026.

Required Documents

Application Form See 'How to Apply' for instructions.

What to Expect Next

Once you submit your application, we will assess your application and experience, identify the best qualified applicants, and refer those applications to the hiring manager for further consideration and interviews.

About the Agency

The Federal Defender for the Western District of Missouri operates under the authority of the Criminal Justice Act. We provide defense services to individuals who are financially unable to obtain adequate representation in Federal criminal cases. A person's eligibility for defender services is determined by the federal court.

Requirements

An applicant must: be admitted to practice before the highest court of at least one state; be a member in good standing of every other state bar of which he/she is a member; have a minimum of five years criminal practice experience, preferably with significant criminal trial experience; have administrative expertise; have a reputation for integrity; and have a commitment to the representation of those unable to afford counsel.