Legal Assistant

Federal Public Defender, Western District of Texas • Austin, TX

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Texas is accepting applications for the position of Legal Assistant, to be stationed in the Austin office. The Legal Assistant provides legal secretarial and clerical support services for one or more Assistant Federal Defenders.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2+ years general experience and 1 year specialized (relevant coursework may substitute).
• Spanish fluency.
• Sound judgment; apply policies; recommend practical solutions.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat.
• Proactive; works independently and collaborates effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Thrives in a high‑volume, fast‑paced law office.

Nice To Haves

• Prior law office experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage attorney calendars, including court settings and filing deadlines.
• Answer and route calls; handle general inquiries professionally.
• Maintain organized, accurate case files and records.
• Draft and review legal documents, briefs, and correspondence in Word; verify accuracy.
• Perform conflict checks as required.
• Provide office support: heavy word processing, filing, photocopying, and mail routing.
• Deliver documents to the courthouse as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Retirement benefits under the Federal Employees Retirement System.
• Optional participation in Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB).
• Optional participation in Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP).
• Optional participation in Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED