Launch Your Legal Career at the DOJ: Trial Attorney (Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation)

Are you a litigator seeking to shape the future of federal law? The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Division is actively seeking talented, high-performing attorneys to join the Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch. This role is a unique opportunity to serve the public interest while tackling some of the most complex and consequential legal challenges facing the United States today. From defending consumer safety to enforcing constitutional mandates, you will be on the front lines of justice.

Job Responsibilities

As a Trial Attorney, your work will be diverse and highly consequential. Your duties include:

Leading Investigations: Spearheading inquiries into corporate misconduct and systemic violations of federal law.
Courtroom Advocacy: Handling all phases of litigation, from discovery and depositions to motions practice and trials.
Legal Briefing: Drafting high-level briefs and legal memoranda that influence federal policy.
Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with client agencies and Department leadership to develop litigation strategies.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

J.D. degree from an accredited institution.
Active bar membership in good standing.
Demonstrated experience commensurate with the GS-11 to GS-15 grade levels.
Ability to pass a drug test and secure a Secret security clearance.

Grade Level Comparison Table

Grade Level	Post-J.D. Experience Required
GS-11	Up to 1 Year
GS-12	1+ Years
GS-13	1.5+ Years
GS-14	2.5+ Years
GS-15	4+ Years

Salary and Benefits

Beyond a competitive salary range of $85,447 to $197,200, this position offers:

Financial Incentives: Potential signing bonuses of up to $25,000 for qualifying candidates.
Retirement and Insurance: Access to the robust federal benefits package, including FERS retirement, TSP matching, and comprehensive health insurance.
Work-Life Balance: Telework opportunities to support a modern professional environment.

Application Tips

Submit Early: High-quality candidates are reviewed on a rolling basis. Do not wait until the July 10, 2026, deadline.
Curate Your Writing Sample: Select a piece that showcases your ability to distill complex facts into compelling legal arguments.
Follow Format Strictly: Adhere to the page limits (2 pages for resume, 10 for writing sample) to ensure your application remains in the primary review pile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the primary focus of the Enforcement Section? A: The Enforcement Section focuses on protecting consumers, including work related to opioid distribution, defective medical devices, and data privacy violations.

Q: Is relocation assistance offered? A: This position does not offer relocation expenses.

This role is a rare chance to work on matters that truly matter to the American public. If you possess the drive, litigation skills, and academic credentials required to make a difference, we encourage you to submit your application today. Join the Civil Division and help us uphold the rule of law.

Why This Trial Attorney (Enforcement And Affirmative Litigation) Job Matters

Protect the nation's health, safety, and economic security as a Trial Attorney with the Department of Justice’s elite Civil Division. Join a team at the forefront of high-impact, national-level affirmative litigation.

Trial Attorney (Enforcement And Affirmative Litigation) Job Overview

The Department of Justice's Civil Division is seeking experienced Trial Attorneys to join its Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch. This role offers the unique opportunity to lead complex federal investigations and litigation nationwide, addressing urgent issues ranging from consumer safety and data privacy to constitutional challenges against federal policy interference. Successful candidates will work in a high-stakes environment, shaping federal law through district court litigation, amicus brief preparation, and strategic legal advocacy.

Requirements for Trial Attorney (Enforcement And Affirmative Litigation)

Possession of a J.D. or equivalent law degree.
Active, good-standing bar membership in any U.S. State, territory, or the District of Columbia.
Minimum legal experience requirements based on grade level: 1 year (GS-11), 1+ years (GS-12), 1.5+ years (GS-13), 2.5+ years (GS-14), 4+ years (GS-15).
Ability to successfully complete a 2-year trial period.
Submission of a professional resume (max 2 pages), cover letter, and a writing sample (max 10 pages, created within the last 3 years).
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Successful completion of a drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications for Trial Attorney (Enforcement And Affirmative Litigation)

Strong academic performance and superior legal writing and advocacy capabilities.
Demonstrated experience in conducting investigations, managing complex discovery, and executing trials.
Experience handling depositions and arguing substantive motions.
Previous judicial clerkship experience.
Proven creativity, sound professional judgment, and high self-motivation.
Specific familiarity with constitutional law and federal enforcement statutes.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary ranging from $85,447 to $197,200 per year.
✓Potential signing bonus of up to $25,000 for highly qualified candidates.
✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Telework eligibility options.
✓Robust professional development and high-level litigation experience.

💡 How to Apply Trial Attorney (Enforcement And Affirmative Litigation) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Trial Attorney (Enforcement And Affirmative Litigation) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement on USAJOBS.
Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare your resume, cover letter, and writing sample according to specified length limitations.
Click 'Apply Online' to initiate the transfer to the DOJ Application Manager system.
Verify your information and complete the required assessment questionnaires.
Upload and assign all supporting documentation to the appropriate categories.
Submit your application and monitor your email for the confirmation receipt.

💡 General Tips

Apply early; the vacancy may close before the deadline if hiring goals are met.
Ensure your writing sample is strictly under the 10-page limit and was authored within the last three years.
Clearly highlight your trial and investigation experience in your resume.
If claiming veteran preference, ensure your DD-214 and relevant SF-15 documents are included.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are less than 3MB in size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a signing bonus available for this position?

Yes, well-qualified candidates may be eligible for a signing bonus of up to $25,000, subject to funding availability and a service obligation agreement. Current federal employees are not eligible.

What is the nature of the 'trial period' for new attorneys?

New hires are subject to a 2-year trial period to evaluate performance, conduct, and contribution to the agency's mission and the public interest.

Can I request reasonable accommodation for the application process?

Yes, candidates needing reasonable accommodation should contact the hiring agency directly to discuss their specific needs.

Job from Offices, Boards And Divisions

The Civil Division of the DOJ serves as the primary legal representative for the United States. Its Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch is tasked with proactive enforcement, seeking to enjoin illegal actions, obtain critical declaratory judgments, and ensure that national regulations are upheld. The branch works tirelessly to safeguard the health, economic security, and privacy of the American people.