Absolutely! Experience as a public defender is often seen as a valuable asset, so don’t hesitate to put your hat in the ring!
Once you send in your application, it goes through a review process. If you've ticked all the boxes, you may get called for an interview or further discussions!
While local knowledge is a plus, you don’t necessarily have to be based in New Orleans to apply, but familiarity with the local legal environment is beneficial.
The application process can take some time, so patience is key! It varies, but typically it can take several weeks to hear back.
It’s best to have a solid background in criminal law along with some experience in appeals to hit the ground running. The more you know, the better!
The application is open to licensed attorneys who have experience in criminal law and appellate work. If you’ve got a knack for handling appeals, you're on the right track!
The CJA Appellate Panel application is for individuals who want to be part of a team that provides legal representation for people who can't afford an attorney during their appeals in federal court.