Serving Clients in the Second Circuit and the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York

Trial Attorneys

Job Announcement for:
Trial Attorney- Manhattan Office
Posting Date: April 14, 2025
Application Deadline: May 16, 2025 

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 internet-related 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 at https://airtable.com/appFc3UeMTHUkTAkt/pagb7Gf5XHRlDQvam/form

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.