Federal Criminal Defense Paralegal

Paralegal – Federal Criminal Defense

We are a federal criminal defense law firm seeking a proactive and highly skilled paralegal to join our team. We are a small group of committed individuals who work hard and play hard, and we are looking for someone equally dedicated to join us. This position requires strong knowledge of the federal criminal justice system and the ability to work closely with attorneys and clients throughout the life of a case.

Responsibilities:

• Manage the timeline of a federal criminal case, from investigation through sentencing.
• Interview prospective clients, both in person and over the phone, and assist in client onboarding.
• Work with clients throughout their cases to gather information, prepare them for proceedings, and ensure consistent communication.
• Attend probation/pretrial services interviews with clients.
• Prepare, draft, and file motions, including bail applications and motions to modify pretrial release conditions.
• Draft initial sentencing memoranda and assist in collecting and organizing letters of support for sentencing.
• Conduct legal research and track statutory mandatory minimums, maximums, and federal sentencing guidelines.
• Utilize PACER, ECF, and the federal court filing system effectively.
• Handle pro hac vice applications and comply with local court rules across federal districts.
• Meet clients at federal detention centers and prisons, including coordinating and securing the necessary approvals for attorney/paralegal visits.
• Communicate professionally with prosecutors, court staff, probation officers, and other stakeholders in the system.

Qualifications:

• Prior experience as a paralegal in federal criminal defense (or closely related area) strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of federal statutes, sentencing guidelines, and court procedures.
• Familiarity with PACER, ECF, and local federal court practices.
• Experience arranging and attending client meetings at federal detention facilities, including completing approval and clearance processes.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to be proactive, organized, and resourceful, with the confidence to interact with clients, court personnel, and law enforcement.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple cases at once.

Eligibility:

We are not interested in recruiters. Please do not send cookie-cutter or generic cover letters — we want to see who you are, why you care about criminal defense, and what makes you a fit for this team.

This role is open to experienced paralegals as well as lawyers who, for any reason, are not currently practicing but have the knowledge, skills, and drive to contribute meaningfully in federal criminal defense. Attorneys who fit this profile and want to work in a hands-on support role are encouraged to apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $85,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Travel reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person