Launch Your Career as a Trial Attorney with the DOJ Fraud Division
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking exceptional legal talent to join the National Enforcement Section of the Fraud Division. As a Trial Attorney, you will be at the forefront of the government’s efforts to combat financial crime, healthcare fraud, and procurement corruption. This role offers the unique chance to serve the public interest while engaging in high-stakes, complex litigation across the United States.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, your primary responsibility is to carry out effective investigations and prosecutions. You will be expected to:
- Formulate litigation strategies and prioritize cases in collaboration with section management.
- Conduct all phases of investigation, including grand jury work and international evidence collection.
- Litigate motions and trials in U.S. District Courts.
- Provide expert legal guidance to Assistant U.S. Attorneys regarding complex questions of law.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Post-J.D. Experience Required | Specialized Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| GS-13 | 1.5 Years | None specified |
| GS-14 | 2.5 Years | 1 Year (GS-13 level) |
| GS-15 | 4 Years | 1 Year (GS-14 level) |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must hold a J.D. degree and be a member in good standing of any state or territory bar. Additionally, candidates must possess excellent analytical and communication skills, as they will represent the government in high-visibility legal matters.
Salary and Benefits
Positions range from GS-13 to GS-15, offering a competitive federal salary of $121,785 to $197,200 annually. Federal employees benefit from a robust compensation package, including health insurance, the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and generous federal retirement benefits.
Application Tips
- Mind the limit: Your resume must be strictly 2 pages or less.
- Formatting matters: Follow the email subject line instructions exactly to avoid disqualification.
- Writing sample: Keep your sample focused, relevant, and under 10 pages.
Serving as a Trial Attorney for the DOJ is an opportunity to challenge yourself at the highest levels of the legal profession. If you are a driven litigator with a commitment to justice, apply today to help protect the financial future of our nation.
Why This Trial Attorney Job Matters
Protect the nation's financial integrity and combat complex fraud as a Trial Attorney with the DOJ Fraud Division.
Trial Attorney Job Overview
The Department of Justice is seeking dedicated Trial Attorneys for the National Fraud Enforcement Division. These three-year renewable term positions involve high-stakes litigation, grand jury investigations, and complex legal strategies to combat healthcare fraud, financial misconduct, and procurement scams. You will join an elite team committed to protecting the public, ensuring the rule of law, and maintaining the financial integrity of the United States economy.
Requirements for Trial Attorney
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) or equivalent degree from an accredited institution.
- Current active membership in good standing with the bar of any state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- For GS-13: Minimum of 1.5 years of post-J.D. legal experience.
- For GS-14: Minimum of 2.5 years of post-J.D. legal experience, including at least one year of specialized litigation experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.
- For GS-15: Minimum of 4 years of post-J.D. legal experience, including at least one year of specialized litigation experience equivalent to the GS-14 level.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Submission of a professional resume (max 2 pages) and writing sample (max 10 pages).
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
Preferred Qualifications for Trial Attorney
- Proven track record as a criminal prosecutor in federal or state courts.
- Extensive experience in private practice legal settings.
- Previous service as a judicial law clerk.
- Demonstrated history of litigating in U.S. District Court or high-level state courts.
- Academic excellence, including a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Superior communication, advocacy, and legal research writing abilities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance plans
- ✓Comprehensive life insurance coverage
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Flexible spending accounts
💡 How to Apply Trial Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Trial Attorney Job
- Prepare a resume (strictly 2-page limit) detailing your J.D. date, employment dates, and hours worked per week.
- Draft a professional cover letter highlighting relevant litigation experience.
- Select a writing sample that does not exceed 10 pages.
- Compile documentation for any special hiring authorities or veteran preferences.
- Send the complete application package in PDF format to the designated email address provided in the announcement.
- Ensure the email subject line matches the required format: Trial Attorney (National Enforcement Section) - Last Name, First Name.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly follow the 2-page resume limit; non-compliant submissions are typically disqualified.
- Clearly define your specialized experience, focusing on your specific role in litigation and complex legal analysis.
- Carefully review the conflicts of interest policy and disclose any relevant matters early in the process.
- Ensure all documentation is in English or accompanied by an English translation.
- Monitor the official DOJ Legal Careers page for real-time status updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are applications accepted through USAJobs?
No. All applications must be submitted directly to the email address specified in the job announcement.
What is the expected length of these positions?
These are three-year renewable term positions.
Is relocation assistance available?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for these positions.
What type of security clearance is required?
*A: Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.*
Is travel required?
*A: Yes, travel is often significant and varies based on your specific litigation caseload.*
Job from Offices, Boards And Divisions
The DOJ Fraud Division is dedicated to protecting the American economy and the integrity of taxpayer-funded programs. By leveraging advanced data analytics and partnering with law enforcement agencies, the Division identifies, investigates, and prosecutes those who threaten our financial systems. Working here means aligning yourself with a culture of excellence, integrity, and independence.