Federal Public Defender

About the role

The United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit is seeking a qualified individual to serve as Federal Public Defender for the Central District of California. This four‑year appointment, commencing on June 1, 2026, provides criminal defense services to individuals who cannot afford counsel under the Criminal Justice Act.

Key responsibilities

• Provide criminal defense representation to indigent clients in the Central District of California.
• Manage an annual budget of $58 million and oversee a staff of more than 230 employees, including attorneys, paralegals, investigators, and support personnel.
• Lead the office headquartered in Los Angeles while coordinating branch offices in Santa Ana and Riverside.
• Ensure compliance with 18 U.S.C. 3006A(g)(2)(A) and maintain high standards of legal representation.

Required profile

• Qualified to serve as Federal Public Defender under 18 U.S.C. 3006A(g)(2)(A).
• Experience in federal criminal defense and familiarity with the Criminal Justice Act.
• Proven ability to manage a large multidisciplinary team and a multi‑million‑dollar budget.

Required skills

What we offer

• Authorized annual salary of $197,200.
• Four‑year term with the possibility of reappointment.
• Leadership of a prominent federal public defender office serving a major district.