Our Commitment
Our commitment is excellence and a passion for justice in representing people accused of federal criminal offenses
WHO WE ARE
Federal public defender offices were established under the Criminal Justice Act of 1964. We are a team of expert trial and appellate attorneys, investigators, social workers, paralegals, IT members, and administrative staff whose careers are devoted to criminal defense and the right to counsel guaranteed under the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution.
REPRESENTATION
Our representation begins with the appointment of our office under the Criminal Justice Act. We stand with our clients at their first appearances in court and throughout the life of their cases. Our clients never stand alone.
We recognize the critical role our office plays in promoting the equitable and fair treatment of our clients, regardless of their backgrounds, and in giving voice to their identities, races, cultures, religions, nationalities, and life experiences. However different, we speak for our clients.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACT PANEL
In addition to federal public defender offices, the Criminal Justice Act established a panel of experienced federal criminal defense attorneys. They are private practitioners from Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, and Durango. They are appointed to felony and misdemeanor cases. Like defenders, these attorneys stand with their clients throughout the life of their cases.
Internship Overview
The Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of Colorado offers two distinct internship opportunities – a general internship with exposure to both trial and appellate practice (spring, summer, and fall), and an appellate intensive internship (summer only). Currently, all internships are based in Denver.
General Internship
Information for General Intern Applicants (Summer 2026, Fall 2026):
General intern role and responsibilities:
Appellate Internship
Information for Appellate Intern Applicants (Summer 2026):
Appellate intern and responsibilities: