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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Position: Litigation Support Paralegal                                                     Location: San Diego, CA

Application Deadline: June 5, 2026                                                            Posted: May 22, 2026

Office Website: www.fdsdi.com                          Salary Range: 11/1 $85,307 to 14/10 $186,785

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. (FDSDI) is seeking a full-time Litigation Support Paralegal to join our Informational Technology team in the San Diego office. FDSDI is the Community Defender Organization for the Southern District of California, serving San Diego and Imperial Counties, and operates under the authority of 18 U.S.C. § 3006A(g)(2)(B) to provide federal criminal defense services by court appointment to individuals who are unable to afford counsel.

The Litigation Support Paralegal plays a critical role in supporting attorneys, paralegals, and investigators in the management, analysis, and presentation of electronic discovery and other case materials. This position is responsible for processing and organizing large volumes of digital evidence, developing litigation databases, preparing trial exhibits and demonstratives, and providing in-court technology support and consultation during hearings and trials. The ideal candidate is highly organized, technically skilled, and enjoys working collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment.

This is a full-time, in-person position based in our San Diego office.

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the Supervisory Computer Systems Administrator, the Litigation Support Paralegal will:

  • Provide specialized litigation support services to attorneys and legal staff in all phases of case preparation, discovery management, and trial.
  • Process, organize, index, and format electronic discovery and other case materials to support case analysis and trial preparation.
  • Create and maintain document databases, indexes, transcripts, and images using litigation support applications.
  • Administer databases, process electronic files, perform optical character recognition (OCR), and convert files into various formats.
  • Digitize and edit audio and video files for use in case preparation and courtroom presentations.
  • Assist attorneys, paralegals, and investigators with the production of discovery to clients, experts, and other authorized recipients.
  • Develop graphic exhibits, demonstratives, timelines, and other visual presentations using software such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and related applications.
  • Prepare exhibit images for courtroom presentation, including highlighting, enlarging, and comparing documents.
  • Synchronize audio and video clips with written transcripts.
  • Collaborate with trial teams to develop effective strategies for presenting evidence using courtroom presentation systems.
  • Provide in-court technology support during hearings and trials and ensure the smooth operation of presentation equipment and software.
  • Advise attorneys on the most effective use of exhibits and presentation tools.
  • Use forensic tools (e.g., Cellebrite, Axiom, FTK) to review analyze and/or extract data from forensically captured digital devices.
  • Train attorneys and staff on litigation support software and best practices.
  • Maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive and privileged information.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Minimum of three years of general experience and two years of specialized experience in litigation support, information technology, paralegal work, or a closely related field.
  • Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Pro, Windows file systems, and a variety of file formats.
  • Experience processing and organizing electronic discovery, including audio, video, and large document collections.
  • Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in computer technology, information management, criminal justice, paralegal studies, or a related field.
  • Experience with litigation support and e-discovery tools such as Adobe Acrobat Pro, CaseMap, TrialDirector, dtSearch, IPRO Eclipse, Cellebrite, UFED4PC, Physical Analyzer, and similar applications.
  • Experience providing courtroom technology support during hearings and trials.
  • Spanish language skills (speaking, reading, and writing) are preferred.
  • Experience using or researching AI tools in a legal or professional environment.
 

Salary and Benefits:

Salary will be commensurate with experience. The starting salary range is: JSP 11/1 ($85,307) to JSP 14/10 ($186,785). The position does include employee benefits including health and life insurance as well as a 401k plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).  This position is at will and is subject to the availability of funds. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation. This position offers one day of telework per month. Full-time telework is not available.

Accessibility:

We are committed to an inclusive and accessible application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability during any stage of the application or interview process, please contact our Personnel Administrator at Kym_Bryant@fd.org. If hired, we are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to support your success and ensure equal access to opportunities in the workplace.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

Our office values diversity, is committed to equity and inclusion, and aspires to create a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, openness, and humility that honors the people we represent. We believe representation is better when members of the defense team have diverse backgrounds and experiences. In our hiring, we seek individuals who share this belief and commitment. We embrace the unique contributions our employees can bring to the office because of their backgrounds, social identities, and lived experiences.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a cover letter, resume, and three references via email to the attention of:

Sammy Lopez, Supervisory Computer Systems Administrator

hiring@fdsdi.com

Subject: Litigation Support Paralegal Position – San Diego

 

Hiring Timeline:

We value transparency in our hiring process and want applicants to know what to expect. Below are the key dates:

  • Application Deadline: June 5, 2026 (priority consideration given to applications received by this date; applications will remain open until filled)
  • Interviews: Conducted on a rolling basis
  • Anticipated Start Date: On or around July 1, 2026 (tentative)

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Position: Litigation Support Paralegal – Case Analysis                          Location: San Diego, CA

Application Deadline: July 17, 2026                                                            Posted: June 30, 2026

Office Website: www.fdsdi.com                          Salary Range: 11/1 $85,307 to 14/10 $186,785

 

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. (FDSDI) is seeking a full-time Litigation Support Paralegal to work with defense teams in the San Diego office. FDSDI is the Community Defender Organization for the Southern District of California, serving San Diego and Imperial Counties, and operates under the authority of 18 U.S.C. § 3006A(g)(2)(B) to provide federal criminal defense services by court appointment to individuals who are unable to afford counsel.

 

The Litigation Support Paralegal plays a critical role in working with defense teams reviewing, analyzing and organizing discovery to help develop and implement case strategies to meet the needs of each individual case. This position is responsible for creating and maintaining discovery review databases, processing and organizing large volumes of digital evidence, and producing and presenting reports that summarize evidence for defense teams. The ideal candidate is highly organized, technically skilled, and enjoys working collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment.

 

This is a full-time, in-person position based in our San Diego office.

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

Litigation Support Paralegals provide a full range of paralegal and litigation support to staff attorneys.  General duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Using discovery review programs (e.g., Eclipse, CaseMap, CasePoint, Relativity) to organize and review discovery
  • Identifying the best technology for review and analysis of discovery and case material
  • Assisting attorneys in case preparation, including trials, sentencing and evidentiary hearings
  • Producing and presenting reports that summarize evidence for the defense team or for presentations in the courtroom
  • Creating, maintaining, and updating indices, chronologies, witness lists, witness files and documents
  • Identifying and preparing documents for experts
  • Attending meetings with clients in/out of custody
  • Using technology to analyze, present and communicate information to case teams
  • Editing and ingesting load files, tagging, and exporting content from discovery review programs
  • Using digital presentation tools in the courtroom (e.g., Trial Director, PowerPoint)
  • Using forensic tools (e.g., Cellebrite, Axiom) to review and extract data from forensically captured digital devices

 

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Minimum of three years of general experience and two years of specialized experience in litigation support, information technology, paralegal work, or a closely related field.
  • Experience with litigation support and e-discovery tools such as CaseMap, dtSearch, IPRO Eclipse, Relativity, CasePoint, and dtSearch
  • Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Pro, Windows file systems, and a variety of file formats.
  • Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in computer technology, information management, criminal justice, paralegal studies, or a related field.
  • Experience editing and ingesting load files, tagging and exporting content.
  • Experience with digital forensics review tools such as Cellebrite Reader, Magnet AXIOM, FTK imager, or XRY/XAMN
  • Spanish language skills (speaking, reading, and/or writing).

 

Salary and Benefits:

Salary will be commensurate with experience. The starting salary range is: JSP 11/1 ($85,307) to JSP 14/10 ($186,785). The position does include employee benefits including health and life insurance as well as a 401k plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).  This position is at will and is subject to the availability of funds. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation. This position offers two days of telework per month at the conclusion of the probationary period. Full-time telework is not available.

Accessibility:

We are committed to an inclusive and accessible application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability during any stage of the application or interview process, please contact our Personnel Administrator at Kym_Bryant@fd.org. If hired, we are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to support your success and ensure equal access to opportunities in the workplace.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

Our office values diversity, is committed to equity and inclusion, and aspires to create a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, openness, and humility that honors the people we represent. We believe representation is better when members of the defense team have diverse backgrounds and experiences. In our hiring, we seek individuals who share this belief and commitment. We embrace the unique contributions our employees can bring to the office because of their backgrounds, social identities, and lived experiences.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a cover letter, resume, and three references via email to the attention of:

 

Michelle Betancourt, First Assistant

hiring@fdsdi.com

Subject: Litigation Support Paralegal Position (Case Analysis) – San Diego

 

Hiring Timeline:

We value transparency in our hiring process and want applicants to know what to expect. Below are the key dates:

  • Application Deadline: July 17, 2026 (priority consideration given to applications received by this date; applications will remain open until filled)
  • Interviews: Conducted on a rolling basis
  • Anticipated Start Date: On or around August 1, 2026, but no later than August 31, 2026.

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Position: Assistant Paralegal                                                                    Location: San Diego, CA

Application Deadline: August 14, 2026                                                       Posted: July 27, 2026

Office Website: www.fdsdi.com                               Salary Range: 9/1 $70,507 to 9/10 $91,664

 

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. (FDSDI) is seeking qualified candidates for one or more full-time Assistant Paralegal positions. FDSDI is the Community Defender Organization for the Southern District of California, serving San Diego and Imperial Counties. We operate under the authority of 18 U.S.C. § 3006A(g)(2)(B) to provide federal criminal defense services by court appointment to individuals who are unable to afford counsel.

 

In this role, Assistant Paralegals provide essential litigation and case support to multiple staff attorneys, assisting with case preparation, document management, legal research support, and coordination of court-related activities. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage competing priorities while working collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment. Professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail are critical to success in this role.

 

This full-time position is scheduled Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the Chief Paralegal, the Assistant Paralegal will:

  • Assist with case preparation and provide ongoing support throughout all stages of litigation.
  • Maintain and organize case files to ensure accuracy, completeness, and accessibility.
  • Organize and index discovery materials, evidence, and exhibits in preparation for hearings and trial.
  • Provide research support and assist with background investigations under general direction.
  • Notify staff attorneys, clients, and other relevant parties of court dates, deadlines, and scheduled appointments.
  • Assist in the preparation of pleadings, motions, and briefs with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Serve as a point of contact for clients, including receiving, screening, and directing phone calls appropriately.
  • Support litigation activities through the use of advanced software and case management tools.
  • Locate, retrieve, and manage documents, records, and information using computer-assisted legal research tools.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 

 

Qualifications:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • A minimum of three years of general work experience, including at least two years of specialized experience, is required. Education above the high school level in an accredited institution may substitute for general experience.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat, with strong general computer literacy.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to multitask, manage time effectively, and prioritize competing responsibilities.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in appellate and criminal law.
  • Proficiency with e-filing procedures in the federal court system and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
  • Familiarity with LexisNexis or similar legal research platforms.
  • Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish.
  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

 

Salary and Benefits:

Salary will be commensurate with experience. The starting salary range is: JSP 9/1 ($70,507) to JSP 9/10 ($91,664). The position does include employee benefits including health and life insurance as well as a 401k plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).  This position is at will and is subject to the availability of funds. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation. This position offers one day of telework per pay period. Full-time telework is not available.

 

Accessibility:

We are committed to an inclusive and accessible application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability during any stage of the application or interview process, please contact the Director of Human Resources at Kym_Bryant@fd.org. If hired, we are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to support your success and ensure equal access to opportunities in the workplace.

 

 

 

 

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

Our office values diversity, is committed to equity and inclusion, and aspires to create a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, openness, and humility that honors the people we represent. We believe representation is better when members of the defense team have diverse backgrounds and experiences. In our hiring, we seek individuals who share this belief and commitment. We embrace the unique contributions our employees can bring to the office because of their backgrounds, social identities, and lived experiences.

 

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a cover letter, resume, and three references via email to the attention of:

 

Sandra Riley, Chief Paralegal

hiring@fdsdi.com

Subject: Assistant Paralegal Position – San Diego

 

Hiring Timeline:

We value transparency in our hiring process and want applicants to know what to expect. Below are the key dates:

  • Application Deadline: August 14, 2026 (priority consideration given to applications received by this date; applications will remain open until filled)
  • Interviews: Conducted on a rolling basis
  • Anticipated Start Date: The start date is flexible based on candidate availability. We anticipate onboarding the selected candidate as soon as practicable, and no later than September 7, 2026.

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Position: Financial Administrator                                                           Location: San Diego, CA

Application Deadline: August 14, 2026                                                      Posted: July 31, 2026

Office Website: www.fdsdi.com                          Salary Range: 9/1 $70,507 to 12/10 $132,923

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. (FDSDI) is seeking a full-time Financial Administrator in our San Diego office. FDSDI is the Community Defender Organization for the Southern District of California, serving San Diego and Imperial Counties, and operates under the authority of 18 U.S.C. § 3006A(g)(2)(B) to provide federal criminal defense services by court appointment to individuals who are unable to afford counsel.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, analytical, and committed to accuracy and integrity. You’ll need strong communication skills, discretion, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. As our Financial Administrator, you’ll be responsible for sound financial stewardship and serve as a key point of contact for financial and budgetary matters.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the Financial Administrator will:

  • Perform accounting for and disbursement of appropriated funds and monitor and control expenses incurred in the operation and maintenance of the office.
  • Assist with internal controls procedures to ensure proper segregation of accounting functions and prevent errors and fraud.
  • Maintain and analyze accounting records and provide documentation for expenditures and fund balances.
  • Prepare and review vouchers for payment, ensuring accuracy and appropriateness.
  • Manage payroll operations including payroll processing through ADP, processing payroll liabilities, pension distributions, and maintaining the general ledger as it pertains to payroll.
  • Prepare status of funds reports and monthly reconciliation reports for review and approval by the Executive Director and Administrative Officer.
  • Monitor spending trends and reprogram funds between budget categories as necessary.
  • Analyze open obligations and expenses.
  • Maintain purchase orders and payment vouchers using accounting software and systems.
  • Formulate budget requests and manage budget development, projections, and maintenance.
  • Assist and coordinate with the Executive Director and Administrative Officer on yearly audit preparation.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally and effectively with employees, vendors, and management.
  • The ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive financial information.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
  • The ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively with others.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, and other business software applications.
  • Experience using commercial or web-based accounting systems
  • Flexibility to adjust work hours periodically based on operational needs.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field.
  • Three or more years of general experience plus one or more of the following:
    • At least three years of experience in budget and financial management using accounting systems to formulate, execute, audit, and report on organizational budgets.
    • A bachelor’s degree with at least 24 credit hours completed in accounting subjects with a B+ average or better.
    • An MBA with an accounting or finance emphasis.
    • A CPA or CMA designation.
  • Proficiency in commercial or web-based accounting systems such as QuickBooks or Sage Business Works.
  • Familiarity with Adobe Acrobat software.
  • Experience with Judiciary Policy or nonprofit field.
  • Demonstrated commitment to accuracy, integrity, and sound financial stewardship.

 

Salary and Benefits:

Salary will be commensurate with experience. The starting salary range is: JSP 5/1 ($46,533) to JSP 12/10 ($132,923). The position does include employee benefits including health and life insurance as well as a 401k plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).  This position is at will and is subject to the availability of funds. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation. This position offers one day of telework per month. Full-time telework is not available.

 

Accessibility:

We are committed to an inclusive and accessible application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability during any stage of the application or interview process, please contact the Director of Human Resources at Kym_Bryant@fd.org. If hired, we are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to support your success and ensure equal access to opportunities in the workplace.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

Our office values diversity, is committed to equity and inclusion, and aspires to create a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, openness, and humility that honors the people we represent. We believe representation is better when members of the defense team have diverse backgrounds and experiences. In our hiring, we seek individuals who share this belief and commitment. We embrace the unique contributions our employees can bring to the office because of their backgrounds, social identities, and lived experiences.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a cover letter, resume, and three references via email to the attention of:

Kasha Castillo, Executive Director

hiring@fdsdi.com

Subject: Financial Administrator Position – San Diego

 

Hiring Timeline:

We value transparency in our hiring process and want applicants to know what to expect. Below are the key dates:

  • Application Deadline: August 14, 2026 (priority consideration given to applications received by this date; applications will remain open until filled)
  • Interviews: Conducted on a rolling basis
  • Anticipated Start Date: On or around September 1, 2026 (tentative)

WE ARE AN

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Contact Us Today

SAN DIEGO OFFICE
  • TEL: 619-234-8467
  • Toll Free: 888-614-9867
  • FAX: 619-687-2666
  • 225 Broadway Ste 900 San Diego, CA 92101

EL CENTRO OFFICE

  • TEL: 760-335-3510
  • Toll Free: 877-404-9063
  • FAX: 760-335-3610
  • 1699 Main St Suite D, El Centro, CA 92243

FDSDI

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*The material found on this Web site is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered to be legal advice and is not guaranteed to be complete or up to date. Use of this Web site is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship between the user and Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc.. (FDSDI) or any of the firm’s attorneys. Readers should not rely upon or act upon this information without seeking professional counsel. See full disclaimer.