United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit

Kansas City, Missouri

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit is accepting applications [under authority of 18 U.S.C. 3006A(g)(2)(A)] from all qualified persons for the position of Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Missouri headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri.

The incumbent Federal Public Defender will retire on December 31, 2026.

The term of appointment is four years.



Job Number: 01-260521-02:  Federal Public Defender


Company Name:
  United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit


The Federal Public Defender provides federal criminal defense services to individuals unable to afford counsel.

An applicant must: (1) be admitted to practice before the highest court of at least one state; (2) be a member in good standing of every other state bar of which he/she is a member; (3) have a minimum of five years criminal practice experience, preferably with significant criminal trial experience; (4) have administrative expertise; (5) have a reputation for integrity; and (6) have a commitment to the representation of those unable to afford counsel.

Federal Public Defenders may not engage in the private practice of law and are subject to judiciary financial disclosure requirements. A background investigation is required.


Annual salary will be equal to the salary of the U.S. Attorney for the district, currently $197,200.



Interested Parties/How to Apply:     

Application forms may be obtained from the Clerk of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri at www.mow.uscourts.gov, or the Circuit Executive's Office in St. Louis, Missouri by e-mail at CE8employment@ca8.uscourts.gov or by phone 314-244-2600.

Applications should be submitted only by the applicant personally and should indicate the applicant's willingness to serve if selected.

Applications should be submitted to:

Ms. Millie B. Adams, Circuit Executive
111 South 10th Street, Suite 26.325
St. Louis, Missouri 63102-1116

The position will remain open until filled.  Application must be received by July 15, 2026.

The U.S. Courts are equal opportunity employers.