Become an Appellate Counsel with the Department of Justice
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is actively seeking high-caliber legal professionals for the position of Trial Attorney (Appellate Counsel) within the National Fraud Enforcement Division. This unique role sits at the intersection of complex litigation and national policy, offering an unparalleled opportunity to influence the rule of law. If you are an experienced attorney looking to transition into a high-impact federal role, this is your opportunity to serve the public interest while tackling some of the most complex fraud cases in the country.
Job Responsibilities
As an Appellate Counsel, you will be deeply involved in every facet of the appellate process. Your primary duties include:
- Representing the United States in federal courts of appeals.
- Drafting merits briefs and certiorari petitions.
- Preparing and presenting oral arguments before appellate courts.
- Providing strategic legal advice to trial attorneys and division leadership.
- Reviewing adverse decisions and recommending further legal action to the Solicitor General.
Comparison Table: GS-14 vs GS-15 Requirements
| Feature | GS-14 Level | GS-15 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Min. Legal Experience | 2.5 Years | 4 Years |
| Specialized Experience | 1 Year at GS-13 | 1 Year at GS-14 |
| Scope of Responsibility | Legal analysis & pleadings | Highly complex litigation & leadership |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must have a J.D. or equivalent from an accredited institution and be an active member of the bar. You must also demonstrate significant post-J.D. legal experience in civil or criminal litigation, specifically focusing on appellate matters. Candidates must also be eligible for a Secret security clearance.
Salary Overview
This position is structured at the GS-14 or GS-15 grade level. The national pay range for these roles spans from $107,446 to $164,301 per year, depending on your duty station and level of experience.
Benefits
Joining the DOJ provides access to world-class federal benefits, including:
- Health and dental insurance programs.
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid vacation and federal holidays.
- Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
Application Tips
- Keep your resume concise—it must not exceed two pages.
- Use a standard PDF format for all documents.
- Include a high-quality writing sample, but keep it under 10 pages.
- Double-check your subject line formatting to ensure your application is processed.
Serving as an Appellate Counsel for the DOJ is a prestigious career step for any litigator. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application and become part of a team dedicated to integrity and justice.
Why This Trial Attorney Job Matters
Shape the future of federal law as an Appellate Counsel with the DOJ’s National Fraud Enforcement Division—where high-stakes litigation meets national impact.
Trial Attorney Job Overview
The Department of Justice is seeking experienced attorneys to serve as Appellate Counsel within the Fraud Division’s Appellate Section. This role offers a unique opportunity to litigate federal fraud matters, represent the United States in federal courts of appeals, and collaborate with the Office of the Solicitor General on high-level Supreme Court strategy. Successful candidates will help defend the integrity of the U.S. economy by managing appellate proceedings, drafting merits briefs, and providing expert legal counsel to internal trial teams.
Requirements for Trial Attorney
- Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) or equivalent degree.
- Active membership and good standing in the bar of any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- GS-14: At least 2.5 years of post-J.D. legal experience, with 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- GS-15: At least 4 years of post-J.D. legal experience, with 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Compliance with all conflict of interest reporting requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Trial Attorney
- Completed federal appellate court clerkship.
- Demonstrated experience drafting federal appellate briefs and presenting oral arguments.
- Comprehensive knowledge of white-collar criminal enforcement and litigation.
- Proven experience leading paralegals and support staff in complex litigation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Competitive federal retirement plans including TSP.
- ✓Life insurance and long-term care insurance options.
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Work-life balance through telework eligibility.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Trial Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Trial Attorney Job
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) including J.D. date, full-time/part-time status, and start/end dates.
- Draft a professional cover letter highlighting relevant litigation experience.
- Prepare a writing sample not exceeding 10 pages.
- Compile necessary documentation for special hiring authorities, veterans preference, or current/former political appointments.
- Submit your application package in PDF format to [email protected] with the subject: 'Appellate Counsel - Last name, First name'.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly adhere to the 2-page limit for your resume; submissions longer than this will be disqualified.
- Clearly denote hours worked per week for every position listed in your resume.
- Ensure all supporting documents, including writing samples, are in PDF format.
- Check for potential conflicts of interest before applying to ensure transparency.
- Apply early as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an Appellate Counsel in the Fraud Division?
Appellate Counsel represent the United States in federal appellate courts, draft briefs, present oral arguments, and coordinate with the Solicitor General on Supreme Court filings.
Can I apply for this position via USAJobs?
No, applications must be submitted directly to the Department of Justice via the email provided in the official vacancy announcement.
Are there specific location restrictions?
This position offers location flexibility after selection, with various hubs across the United States including Washington D.C., Los Angeles, and Chicago.
Job from Offices, Boards And Divisions
The National Fraud Enforcement Division is tasked with the critical mission of investigating and prosecuting those who defraud the American public. By utilizing state-of-the-art investigative data and partnering with law enforcement agencies globally, the division safeguards the financial integrity of the United States. DOJ employees are held to the highest standards of ethics, honesty, and integrity, ensuring that the work performed truly reflects the values of the American justice system.