THE FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER for the Western District of Texas is accepting applications for a research and writing specialist for its Capital Habeas Unit in Austin, Texas. The Capital Habeas Unit (CHU) is responsible for representing death-sentenced prisoners in federal habeas corpus proceedings in the United States District Courts in Texas, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and the United States Supreme Court. The CHU represents indigent, death-sentenced prisoners in all four federal districts in Texas.
The research and writing specialist position is an attorney position. Applicants must be: (1) a graduate of an accredited law school; and (2) admitted to practice in good standing before the highest court of a state. A minimum of three years of specialized experience is preferred. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including but not limited to an FBI name and fingerprint check.
The primary duties of a research and writing specialist include advanced legal research and writing, review and analysis of records, and litigation assistance to other attorneys and investigators working in and with the CHU. A research and writing specialist is required to stay up to date on the latest developments in habeas corpus and criminal procedure; draft petitions and appellate briefs in the federal courts; analyze and research records; develop trusting relationships with clients; conduct field work, including gathering records and conducting investigations. The research and writing specialist is not an assistant federal public defender and does not ordinarily sign pleadings or make court appearances. The position requires travel.
Qualified persons may apply by forwarding a letter of interest (mentioning announcement number 21-05), résumé, and representative writing sample. Legal experience should be described in detail. Send completed application to: Maureen Scott Franco, Federal Public Defender, Western District of Texas, 504 Lavaca St., Suite 960, Austin, Texas 78701-2860, or you may submit your letter of interest and resume in a single PDF document by email to TXW_Employment@fd.org. The document should be named as follows: "Announcement number, position title, last name, first name" (e.g. 21-05 CHU RAWS, Smith, John). Electronic submissions sent directly to the Defender will not be considered. For applicants with disabilities, this organization provides reasonable accommodations, which are determined on a case-by-case basis. To request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or interview process, contact Personnel Administrator Victoria B. Longoria at (210) 981-2081. More than one position may be filled from this announcement. Position announced December 2, 2020 subject to the availability of funds; open until filled.
The Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer.