Pursuing Justice: Assistant United States Attorney (Appeals) Role in Chicago
Becoming an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) is one of the most prestigious paths for any litigator. The Northern District of Illinois is currently accepting applications for the Appellate Section of its Criminal Division. This role is ideal for experienced attorneys who excel in legal research, brief writing, and the rigors of appellate advocacy.
Job Responsibilities
As an Appellate AUSA, your work is critical to the integrity of federal prosecutions. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Briefing: Drafting high-level appellate briefs for the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.
- Advocacy: Presenting oral arguments regarding complex constitutional, statutory, and evidentiary issues.
- Mentorship: Editing the work of colleagues and assisting with moot court sessions to prepare them for oral arguments.
- Strategy: Monitoring emerging case law and providing legal counsel to trial prosecutors regarding complex district court litigation.
| Feature | Requirement / Detail |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | AD |
| Location | Chicago, Illinois |
| Salary Range | $80,994 - $197,100 |
| Citizenship | Required |
| Security Clearance | Special-Sensitive/High Risk |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet stringent criteria. Applicants need a J.D. degree, active bar membership, and at least two years of post-J.D. legal experience. Beyond these basics, your application must demonstrate strong academic achievement and a clear commitment to public service.
Salary and Benefits
Salaries for AUSAs are administratively set based on experience. The federal government also provides a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans (FERS), health insurance, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
- Follow Instructions Exactly: The application process involves both the USAJOBS portal and a direct email submission. Missing either step will result in disqualification.
- The Two-Page Rule: Your resume must be two pages or less. This is a firm requirement.
- Tailor Your Narrative: Use the AUSA Questionnaire to articulate your passion for public service and your specific experience in criminal law.
Serving as an AUSA in the Northern District of Illinois is a career-defining opportunity. If you have the appellate expertise and the dedication to public service, apply today.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Appeals) Job Matters
Elevate your legal career by representing the United States government in high-stakes criminal appeals within the Northern District of Illinois.
Assistant United States Attorney (Appeals) Job Overview
The Department of Justice, Northern District of Illinois, is seeking experienced attorneys for the position of Assistant United States Attorney (Appeals). This role focuses on criminal appellate litigation, requiring sharp analytical skills, excellent legal writing, and the ability to handle complex constitutional and procedural issues before the Seventh Circuit.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Appeals)
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Minimum of two years of post-J.D. legal experience.
- United States citizenship.
- Ability to pass a comprehensive background investigation, including drug testing, credit, and tax checks.
- Residency within 25 miles of the assigned district.
- Registration with the Selective Service System (if applicable).
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Appeals)
- Significant appellate litigation experience.
- Prior criminal law or federal prosecution experience.
- Proven track record of strong legal research and writing skills.
- Academic excellence.
- Commitment to public service.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Comprehensive health benefits
- ✓Life insurance
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Federal holidays
- ✓Professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Appeals) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Appeals) Job
- Create a USAJOBS account and complete the online profile.
- Draft a concise, two-page resume detailing relevant work history.
- Prepare a complete application package, including a cover letter, law school transcript, and a recent writing sample.
- Submit your resume and cover letter via both the USAJOBS portal and the official recruitment email address.
- Submit your transcript, writing sample, three professional recommendations, and the AUSA Questionnaire via email only.
- Monitor application status through the USAJOBS 'Track This Job' feature.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will result in immediate disqualification.
- Double-check that all five required items are sent to the correct email address, not just uploaded to USAJOBS.
- Ensure your resume includes clear start and end dates (month/day/year) and hours worked per week.
- Highlight appellate-specific experience in your cover letter and questionnaire.
- Check your application status regularly in the USAJOBS portal to confirm all documentation has been successfully processed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit my writing sample through USAJOBS?
No. The application instructions explicitly require the writing sample, transcript, recommendations, and questionnaire to be submitted exclusively via email to the address provided in the job announcement.
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary ranges from $80,994 to $197,100 per year, determined administratively based on years of professional legal experience.
Is this a remote or telework position?
This position is not listed as telework-eligible or remote; it is based in Chicago, Illinois.
What is the application deadline?
This is an open continuous announcement until September 30, 2026.
Is relocation assistance available?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Illinois (NDIL) is a powerhouse of federal litigation. Tasked with representing the United States in both criminal and civil matters, the office works alongside federal law enforcement to ensure the rule of law is upheld. Whether fighting organized crime or defending agency actions, AUSAs in this district serve as the primary representatives of the Department of Justice.