Description

The Federal Public Defender for the Northern District of Florida is seeking a Research and Writing Attorney for its Trial Unit. The position will be based in our main office in Tallahassee, Florida, however, the attorney will work on cases throughout the district. Applicants should be willing to travel as needed. 

 The Research and Writing Specialist is an attorney position that provides advanced legal research and writing services to the FPD and Trial Unit AFPDs, assists in preparation of motions and legal memoranda, and examines complex and diverse records and discovery. The Research and Writing Specialist does not ordinarily sign pleadings or make court appearances. 

Requirements

Candidates must be able to analyze legal issues from lengthy, complex records, write clearly and concisely, and have strong computer skills. Prior legal writing experience, law review membership, or a judicial law clerkship are desirable. Federal court experience and membership in The Florida Bar are advantages, but not prerequisites. We will consider applications from exceptional 2026 graduating 3Ls who plan to take a bar exam in July 2026. Membership in, or at start date immediate eligibility for membership to, the Bar for the United States Northern District of Florida is a prerequisite. Fluency in Spanish will also be an advantage although not a requirement.