Federal Public Defender

About the role

The United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit is seeking a qualified Federal Public Defender to lead the Office of the Federal Public Defender for the Central District of California. The position begins on June 1, 2026, with a four‑year term and the possibility of reappointment.

Key responsibilities

• Provide high‑quality criminal defense services to indigent individuals under the Criminal Justice Act.
• Manage an annual budget of approximately $58 million.
• Supervise a staff of over 230 employees, including attorneys, paralegals, investigators, and support personnel.
• Oversee operations at the headquarters in Los Angeles and branch offices in Santa Ana and Riverside.
• Ensure compliance with 18 U.S.C. 3006A(g)(2)(A) and district‑specific defense plans.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in federal criminal defense, preferably with leadership or managerial responsibilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large budgets and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong knowledge of federal statutes governing public defense.
• Excellent judgment, integrity, and commitment to the constitutional right to counsel.

Required skills

• None explicitly listed.

What we offer

• Authorized annual salary of $197,200.
• Leadership of a prominent federal public defense office serving a major California district.
• Opportunity to shape policy and practice for federal criminal defense.
• Professional environment with a diverse team of legal and investigative professionals.