Overview
Overview: Federal Defenders of New York (FDNY) is seeking a trial attorney for our Eastern District of New York Brooklyn office. FDNY is a federal public defender office that provides legal representation to indigent persons accused of federal crimes in the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York and in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. We are not a government agency and our employees are not government employees. Our mission is straightforward: although we provide our services free of cost, our clients receive the finest legal representation available at any price. For more information about our office, please visit our website at federaldefendersny.org.
Ideal Candidate: We are looking for someone who is committed to equal justice and experienced in fighting vigorously for those accused of sex offenses, homicides, drugs, fraud, robbery, firearms, and internet-related crimes. The ideal candidate will have: a demonstrable ability to communicate well with people of many different backgrounds; an unflagging refusal to give up in difficult circumstances; an ability to triage and act quickly but with attention to detail in emergencies; the ability to work both independently and collaboratively; and the impulse to take initiative. Strong oral advocacy, research and writing skills are essential. Knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure and evidence is mandatory. Experience reviewing large quantities of electronic discovery is preferred, as is experience with relevant forensic areas and with mental health issues. Proficiency in another language is highly desirable but not mandatory. An active commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism is expected.
We are an equal opportunity employer and are actively engaged in creating and maintaining a work environment characterized by diversity, equity and inclusion
Minimum Qualifications:
• Admitted to NY Bar (or able to be admitted within one year’s time) • Commitment to indigent defense
• Five years of (post-law school) legal experience • Ability to relate well to people of all backgrounds • Courtroom experience, including a minimum of two felony jury trials and two oral arguments on substantive motions or sentencings
• Proficiency in legal analysis, legal research and legal writing including writing substantive motions and sentencing memoranda in at least two cases
• Substantial defense experience in at least one of the following areas: fraud, homicide, sex crimes, terrorism, or forensic challenges.
• Demonstrable skills in organization, time management and attention to detail in fast-paced environments.
• Able to receive national security clearance