The Chief Circuit Mediator supervises the Circuit Mediation and Judicial Support Office, which provides mediation services and assists in matters of judicial conduct and disability, attorney discipline, Criminal Justice Act fee voucher review, case budgeting, pro bono representation, and local rule review. The office is comprised of two circuit mediators, a legal analyst, an administrative assistant, a circuit case budgeting attorney, a CJA administrative attorney, and a CJA analyst.

Duties

The Chief Circuit Mediator manages the Circuit Mediation Program, which facilitates settlement discussions among parties and their counsel in a wide range of civil appeals. Cases are selected for the program via invitations from the Chief Circuit Mediator, referrals from judges, and requests from parties. Mediators devise a settlement process that meets the needs of the participants by meeting virtually or in-person and facilitating negotiations, managing conflict, and promoting the parties' understanding of the ramifications of litigation. In addition, mediation services are provided to help resolve disputes between employees and employing offices of the courts of the circuit. The Chief Circuit Mediator also oversees and guides the staff of the CMJSO, who provide the following services to the Chief Circuit Judge and the Fifth Circuit: Processing and providing initial analysis of complaints of judicial misconduct or disability. Mediators assist in the resolution of complex complaints. Assisting in the resolution of attorney discipline matters involving members of the Fifth Circuit Bar and CJA Panel. Processing and analyzing CJA vouchers submitted by counsel appointed to represent indigent criminal defendants, both in the court of appeals, and, when large (excess) amounts are involved, in the district courts. The Chief Circuit Mediator approves non-excess appellate vouchers, motions for interim payments, and requests for travel expenses for oral argument. Aiding with the development of budgets for major criminal cases in the district courts of the circuit as well as the court of appeals. Administering the Pro Bono Program in the court of appeals. Reviewing proposed local rule changes from the district and bankruptcy courts within the circuit and providing recommendations to the Fifth Circuit Judicial Council. As a unit executive of the court of appeals, the Chief Circuit Mediator also participates in making upper-level policy and management decisions involving the operations and employees of the office.

Requirements

Qualifications

Candidates must also have at least five years of progressively responsible experience as an attorney, including work relevant to the duties of the position, and be capable of managing other legal professionals. A minimum of ten years of legal work experience is strongly preferred.

Education

Candidates must be a graduate of a law school accredited by the American Bar Association and a member in good standing of the bar of at least one state, territorial, or federal court of general jurisdiction.

Contacts

• Address United States Court of Appeals for Fifth Circuit 600 Camp Street, Room 109 New Orleans, LA 70130 US
• Name: Human Resources Unit
• Email: [email protected]