Advance Your Legal Career: Becoming a Lateral Attorney at the CIA
For legal professionals seeking a career that transcends the courtroom, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) offers a unique landscape. As a Lateral Attorney within the Office of General Counsel (OGC), you are not just practicing law; you are providing the critical counsel that safeguards national security and ensures the integrity of intelligence operations. This role is a gateway for experienced attorneys to apply their skills in a dynamic, high-stakes federal environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lateral Attorney, your daily work will be varied and complex. You will:
- Provide counsel to CIA leadership on the National Security Act and other executive authorities.
- Conduct legal research on sensitive, high-impact matters.
- Advise on procurement, employment, and fiscal law.
- Engage with other intelligence community elements and congressional committees.
- Draft legal policy that guides global agency operations.
Requirements
To be considered for this competitive position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
- Education: A Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited institution.
- Experience: At least three years of post-law school experience.
- Bar Admission: Active membership in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Background: Successful completion of a full security clearance process.
Salary and Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $143,913 - $197,200 |
| Schedule | Full-time |
| Location | Washington, D.C. |
| Security Clearance | SCI Level |
Benefits
Employees of the CIA enjoy the federal government's robust benefits package, including:
- Competitive health insurance and retirement plans.
- Comprehensive leave policies.
- Opportunities for specialized agency training.
- Potential for relocation assistance.
Application Tips
The CIA's hiring process is unique. Rather than applying through traditional portals, applicants use the agency's dedicated career site. Ensure your resume highlights your ability to synthesize law with policy, as the OGC prioritizes clear, actionable legal advice over academic theory.
Becoming a Lateral Attorney at the CIA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the rule of law and the protection of the United States. If you possess the experience, judgment, and dedication required, this is the pinnacle of federal legal service.
Why This Lateral Attorney Job Matters
Join the Nation's first line of defense as a Lateral Attorney, where your legal expertise directly impacts intelligence, national security, and the future of the United States.
Lateral Attorney Job Overview
The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is seeking highly skilled attorneys to join its Office of General Counsel (OGC). As a lateral hire, you will provide critical legal counsel on matters ranging from national security and intelligence law to government ethics, privacy, and procurement. This role is designed for experienced legal professionals who excel in high-stakes environments and are committed to upholding the U.S. Constitution while navigating the complexities of intelligence operations.
Requirements for Lateral Attorney
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be able to successfully complete a comprehensive background investigation.
- Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an American Bar Association-accredited law school.
- Minimum of three years of post-law school legal experience.
- Preference for a law school GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
Preferred Qualifications for Lateral Attorney
- Demonstrated expertise in areas such as Constitutional Law, Government Contracts, Employment Law, or Cyber Law.
- Strong client counseling skills with the ability to synthesize complex facts and law.
- Proven experience managing multiple competing priorities under tight deadlines.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in diverse, high-pressure environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays.
- ✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
- ✓Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
💡 How to Apply Lateral Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lateral Attorney Job
- Visit the official CIA careers portal to review the specific job requirements.
- Create or update your account on the agency's MyLINK system.
- Submit your resume, cover letter, and job rankings.
- Monitor your MyLINK account for status updates regarding your application.
💡 General Tips
- Highlight your experience in specific practice areas relevant to the OGC mission.
- Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates your three-plus years of post-JD legal experience.
- Be prepared for a rigorous security clearance process as part of the hiring journey.
- Consider applying to specific practice-area postings if you have deep expertise in a niche legal field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of security clearance is required?
This position requires a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance, which involves a comprehensive background investigation.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
No, U.S. citizenship is a mandatory requirement for employment with the Central Intelligence Agency.
Does this role allow for remote or telework?
Due to the sensitive nature of the work, this position is currently not designated as telework-eligible.
Job from Central Intelligence Agency
The CIA is the Nation's primary intelligence agency, responsible for providing objective all-source analysis and conducting covert actions as directed by the President. Working at the OGC means you are embedded within the heart of American foreign policy and intelligence strategy. The agency values diverse perspectives and offers a culture of professional growth, service, and intellectual challenge.