Trial Attorney (ITFO-NY).

Responsibilities

1. Represent the United States in all aspects of first chair trial and appellate litigation.
2. At the trial stage, personally manage cases, conduct fact investigation, work with expert witnesses, serve and respond to discovery, take and defend depositions, write all substantive and procedural briefs, conduct all aspects of any trial, and present oral arguments in the U.S. Court of International Trade.
3. Personally handle all aspects of appeals in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
4. Engage in settlement negotiations and recommend settlements when appropriate.
5. Work closely with counsel from Federal client agencies.
6. Handle cases involving importer challenges to U.S. Customs and Border Protection decisions, tariffs, trade‑related presidential proclamations and executive orders, international treaties and free trade agreements, disputes over government license refusals or revocations, and actions for collection of duties and penalties under customs laws.

Location

This is not a remote location position. You will be required to work in person five days a week.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Must complete a background investigation including drug testing.
• All male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must have registered for selective service or demonstrate exempt status.
• May require completion of a 2‑year trial period (see Trial Period Statement).
• May be required to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with eligibility for SCI access depending on organizational assignment or duty location.
• Must pass a drug test that screens for illegal drug use prior to final appointment.
• Financial disclosure required in accordance with DOJ and federal ethics guidelines.

Qualifications

Applicants must possess a J.D. (or equivalent), be licensed to practice as an attorney in any U.S. state, territory, or District of Columbia, and be an active member of the bar in good standing.

• GS‑11: up to 1 year of legal experience.
• GS‑12: minimum 1 year (or more) post‑J.D. legal experience.
• GS‑13: at least 1.5 years of post‑J.D. legal experience.
• GS‑14: at least 2.5 years of post‑J.D. legal experience.
• GS‑15: at least 4 years of post‑J.D. legal experience.

Qualifications must be met by the closing date of the vacancy announcement.

Preferred qualifications

• Proven advocacy and legal writing skills.
• Experience drafting and arguing motions, handling discovery, taking and defending depositions, developing expert witness testimony, and trying cases.

Trial Period Statement

As a condition of employment, you will be required to serve a 2‑year trial period during which the agency will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. Evaluation criteria include performance and conduct; needs and interests of the agency; alignment with agency or government goals; and contribution to the efficiency of federal service. Upon completion of the trial period, employment will be terminated unless you receive certification in writing that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Education

All academic degrees and coursework must be completed at a college or university with accreditation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Foreign education may be used if it is comparable to an accredited U.S. institution; evidence must be submitted in English or with an English translation.

Additional information

Onboarding: the Division plans to onboard new attorneys by September 6, 2026. Early application is encouraged due to limited funding and potential recruitment incentives.

Applicants approved for a signing bonus must sign a service agreement prior to onboarding, committing to a service period of two years or longer.

Veteran Preference

Applicants entitled to or claiming veterans’ preference should indicate the type of preference (5 or 10 points) on their resume. If eligible, include supporting documentation (e.g., DD‑214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, and other supporting documents) and, for 10‑point preference, submit SF‑15.

EEO Statement

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact the hiring agency directly for case‑by‑case determinations.

Benefits

As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to be rewarding. Eligibility depends on position type; contact the hiring agency for details.