Trial Attorney - Manhattan Office

Federal Defenders of New York (FDNY) is seeking applicants for a trial attorney position in

our Manhattan office. Applicants must have a minimum of two years of legal experience.

The position is guaranteed for two (2) years with the potential for permanent employment

contingent upon funding and office need.

Who are we?

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 should receive the finest legal representation available at any price. We are looking

for someone who is committed to equal justice and willing to fight vigorously for those accused of

crimes.

Trial Attorney Essential Duties & Responsibilities

The trial attorney will work as a part of a legal team, including investigators, paralegals, social

workers and support staff to represent clients accused of federal crimes in all phases of litigation,

from arrest through trial and sentencing. Caseloads may be comprised of, but are not limited to bank

robbery, drug trafficking, firearm possession, fraud, immigration-related offenses, and internetrelated

crimes including child pornography.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position starts at $115,440 up to $195,100. This range is consistent with

the federal pay-scale guidelines and regulations. The salary is commensurate on the experience of the

candidate as based within the range.

FDNY also offers excellent employer benefits, some of which include:

• Paid Vacation & Sick Leave
• Federal paid holidays
• Health insurance, including medical/dental/vision
• Group Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Transit Subsidy Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Legal training & workshops for CLE credit

Federal Defenders is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are

encouraged to apply, as FDNY is dedicated to promoting a work environment that supports and

respects all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, gender identity, national origin,

religion, or disability. Our office is committed to building a workplace that embraces different

identities, voices, and worldviews—valuing equity and the richness of varied lived experiences.

To apply, interested applicants must electronically submit two writing samples, along with their resume and cover letter to our application portal.

All materials should be addressed to Tamara Giwa, Executive Director , Federal Defenders of New York, 52 Duane St., New York, NY 10007. Phone calls and faxes will not be accepted. The priority application deadline is MAY 16, 2025. However, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early submission is strongly encouraged.