Launch Your Legal Career as an Assistant United States Attorney
Are you a litigator with a passion for public service? The Department of Justice (DOJ) is actively seeking experienced and driven attorneys to join the Western District of Virginia (USAO-WDVA). As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA), you will serve on the front lines of the American justice system, prosecuting federal offenses and representing the United States in a diverse range of legal matters.
About the Agency: USAO-WDVA
The Western District of Virginia encompasses a significant portion of the state, serving over 2.2 million residents. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is tasked with upholding the rule of law, protecting civil rights, and ensuring public safety through the enforcement of federal criminal and civil statutes. Working here means joining a collaborative team of high-caliber professionals dedicated to justice, integrity, and excellence.
Job Responsibilities
AUSAs in this district manage complex, high-stakes caseloads. Your daily activities will include:
- Investigating and prosecuting various criminal offenses, including white-collar crime, organized crime, narcotics trafficking, and public corruption.
- Collaborating with federal agents and investigative agencies to build strong cases.
- Conducting legal research and drafting motions, briefs, and pleadings.
- Preparing for and appearing in federal court for trials, hearings, and sentencing proceedings.
- Focusing on national security, public safety, and immigration enforcement.
Key Requirements
To be considered for this prestigious role, you must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | J.D. Degree from an accredited law school |
| Licensing | Active bar member in any U.S. jurisdiction |
| Citizenship | Must be a United States citizen |
| Background | Must pass an intensive security clearance and drug test |
Salary and Compensation
Compensation for AUSAs is administratively determined based on professional experience. The current salary range is $76,748 to $197,100 per annum, inclusive of applicable locality pay.
Benefits Overview
Working for the federal government provides a robust suite of benefits, including:
- Comprehensive Health Insurance
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- Generous Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
- Paid Federal Holidays
- Professional Development Opportunities
Application Tips for Success
- Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Failure to follow this formatting instruction results in automatic disqualification.
- Detail Your Experience: Be thorough with your employment history, including duties performed and full hours worked.
- Apply Early: While the announcement is open until December 31, 2026, priority consideration goes to those who apply by July 2, 2026.
Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than a job; it is a commitment to the safety and equality of our nation. With offices in Abingdon, Charlottesville, and Roanoke, the Western District of Virginia offers a dynamic environment for attorneys to sharpen their trial skills and make a lasting impact. If you meet the qualifications, submit your application through the official USAJOBS portal today.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Matters
Join the front lines of federal justice: The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia is seeking dedicated legal professionals to prosecute complex federal crimes and uphold the rule of law.
Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Overview
The Department of Justice, Western District of Virginia, is recruiting motivated attorneys for Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) positions. This is an open-continuous announcement for opportunities based in Abingdon, Charlottesville, and Roanoke, Virginia. Successful candidates will manage their own caseloads, representing the United States in a wide array of criminal prosecutions including white-collar crime, public corruption, and national security matters. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve the public interest while engaging in high-stakes litigation.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Active member in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
- Must pass a comprehensive pre-employment background investigation, including credit and tax checks.
- Must pass a mandatory drug screening test.
- Compliance with Selective Service registration requirements for applicable male applicants.
- Ability to reside within the assigned district or within 25 miles thereof.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
- Prior experience serving as a federal law clerk.
- Demonstrated history of litigating in federal court.
- Superior academic performance record.
- Exceptional legal research, writing, and analytical capabilities.
- Proven sound judgment and professional ethics.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Life insurance coverage options.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload a resume (strictly limited to two pages) detailing your work experience and credentials.
- Submit your complete application package via the portal by 11:59 PM ET.
- Monitor your application status through the 'Track My Application' feature on your account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer; exceeding this limit will result in disqualification.
- Clearly outline your duties, professional accomplishments, and specific start/end dates (MM/DD/YYYY) for every role.
- Veterans should include supporting documentation such as a DD-214 and SF-15 if claiming preference.
- Apply by July 2, 2026, for primary consideration; the office reviews additional applications on a bi-weekly basis thereafter.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents have finished the virus scanning process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely as an AUSA?
While the DOJ offers some telework flexibility, these positions require in-person attendance at specific office locations and adherence to district residency requirements.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this appointment.
How often will my application be reviewed?
The office reviews applications on a rolling basis, specifically every two weeks after the initial July 2, 2026, priority deadline.
What if I have a disability?
The DOJ encourages applications from qualified individuals with disabilities and provides reasonable accommodations throughout the hiring process.
Is there a residency requirement?
Yes, AUSAs are typically required to live within the district to which they are appointed or within 25 miles of the district boundary.