Notice of Vacancy
Federal Public Defender
Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit seeks applications from all highly qualified candidates for appointment as the Federal Public Defender for the Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi. The office is headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi. Regular overnight travel throughout the district is required. The terms of appointment and reappointment are four years.

The selection process will be confidential and competitive. Only those persons with a law degree whose character, experience, ability, and integrity qualify them to serve in the Judicial Branch should apply. The Judiciary is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The selection procedures and the application form are available at www.ca5.uscourts.gov. A completed application form (PDF format) should be emailed to ns-msfpd@ca5.uscourts.gov. Confirmation of receipt will be sent via email. THE DEADLINE FOR FILING A COMPLETED APPLICATION IS MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2026.

APPLICANTS FOR THIS POSITION
DO NOT NEED TO FILL OUT A FORM AO78