Attorney - Government

Trial Attorney - Federal Programs Branch
Federal Programs Branch seeks attorneys to defend the United States, Executive Office of the President, and agencies in cases challenging the legality of policies and actions brought in federal district courts. The branch works across many areas of government. Candidates may receive a signing bonus of up to $25,000.

Location: 1100 L Street NW, Washington, DC.

Salary: GS‑15 level, $147,945 to $197,200 per year (subject to locality pay).

Role: Trial attorneys in the Federal Programs Branch are generalists who participate in significant, often high‑profile litigation across a broad range of practice areas. They are expected to handle all phases of district court litigation, including taking and defending depositions, managing written discovery, conducting legal research and analysis, writing briefs and other documents, attending court conferences, arguing motions, and conducting trials.

Responsibilities:

Handle all phases of district court litigation: depositions, discovery, research, brief writing, court conferences, motion arguments, and trials.

Communicate regularly with client agencies, Department of Justice leadership, opposing counsel, and other stakeholders.

Work on both individual and team cases to support the Branch’s mission of defending the interests of the United States.

Qualifications:

J.D. (or equivalent) and admission to practice as an attorney in any U.S. jurisdiction.

Active, in good standing, member of the bar.

U.S. citizen.

At least four (4) years of post‑J.D. legal experience at the GS‑15 grade level.

Proven advocacy and legal writing skills; experience drafting and arguing motions, handling discovery, taking and defending depositions, developing expert witness testimony, and trying cases is highly desirable.

Trial Period Statement:

As a condition of employment for accepting this position in accordance with section11.5 of Executive Order14284, you will be required to serve a 2‑year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:

your performance and conduct.

the needs and interests of the agency.

whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government.

whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Additional Information:

Travel: occasional.

Relocation expenses: not authorized.

#J-18808-Ljbffr The United States Department of Justice