Become a Forensic Science Attorney with the FBI

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is looking for highly qualified attorneys to join the Forensic Science Law Unit (FSLU) within the Office of the General Counsel. If you have a passion for law, a fascination with science, and the drive to work on the most complex cases in the nation, this is a career-defining opportunity.

Job Responsibilities

As an attorney in the FSLU, your duties will include:

Advising FBI agents on IGG-related investigations.
Developing legal strategies for the admissibility of DNA and other forensic evidence.
Coordinating with the Department of Justice on trial strategy and policy.
Drafting and advocating for legislation related to forensic science.
Representing the FBI in inter-agency forensic legal discussions.

Comparison: GS-14 vs GS-15 Requirements

Feature	GS-14 Role	GS-15 Role
Min. Experience	2.5 Years	4 Years
Focus	Complex Litigation	Expert Advisory
Responsibility	High	Leadership

Requirements

To be considered, candidates must be U.S. citizens, hold a J.D. from an ABA-accredited school, and maintain active bar membership in a U.S. jurisdiction. You must also be able to pass a rigorous background check for a Top-Secret/SCI security clearance.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary range between $143,913 and $197,200 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, generous retirement contributions (FERS/TSP), and extensive leave options.

Application Tips

Follow the email submission instructions precisely.
Keep your application documents within the specified page limits.
Emphasize your experience with criminal prosecution and technical evidence in your resume.

Serving as a Forensic Science Attorney at the FBI puts you at the absolute cutting edge of law enforcement. Apply today to contribute to the future of justice.

Why This Attorney (Forensic Science) Job Matters

Join the forefront of justice at the FBI, where your legal expertise will help shape the future of forensic science and Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG) in high-stakes criminal litigation.

Attorney (Forensic Science) Job Overview

The FBI's Office of the General Counsel is hiring experienced attorneys for the Forensic Science Law Unit in Quantico, Virginia. As a Forensic Science Attorney, you will work alongside world-class laboratory experts, provide critical legal guidance on IGG investigative activities, and develop strategies for the admissibility of cutting-edge DNA evidence to help solve complex criminal cases nationwide.

Requirements for Attorney (Forensic Science)

U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
Possess a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
Active, good-standing membership in a U.S. jurisdiction bar association.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret/SCI security clearance.
Completion of a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-450) annually.
2.5+ years of post-J.D. legal experience for GS-14; 4+ years for GS-15.
Must be able to pass a drug test.

Preferred Qualifications for Attorney (Forensic Science)

At least 5 years of experience as a federal or state prosecutor handling complex criminal matters.
Proven experience litigating forensic evidence admissibility.
Expertise in complex discovery challenges and the DOJ Touhy process.
A demonstrated passion for mastering complex scientific and technical subject matter.
Background in utilizing DNA evidence in court proceedings.
Experience providing training to law enforcement or legal professionals.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal employee health, dental, and vision insurance options
✓Comprehensive life insurance programs
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) with government matching
✓Generous paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave
✓Ongoing professional development and training opportunities

💡 How to Apply Attorney (Forensic Science) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Attorney (Forensic Science) Job

Ensure you meet all basic requirements and have required documents ready (Resume, Cover Letter, J.D. Transcript, Bar Membership proof, SF-50 if applicable).
Draft an email with a short introduction (2-3 sentences) and include your contact information.
Format your email subject line exactly as specified (e.g., OGC_FSLU_2026_External).
Attach all required documentation in electronic format.
Submit your complete application package to the designated FBI email address provided.

💡 General Tips

Strictly follow the email subject line format; incorrect formatting may lead to your application being overlooked.
Keep your resume and cover letter concise; the combined limit is 2 pages.
Your writing sample should be high-quality and demonstrate your ability to articulate complex legal concepts, not exceeding 10 pages.
Ensure your bar membership status is current and verifiable.
Highlight your specific experience with scientific evidence or prosecutorial roles in your cover letter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is telework available for this position?

No, this position is not eligible for telework, as it requires close collaboration within the FBI laboratory environment in Quantico, VA.

What is the primary focus of the Forensic Science Law Unit?

The FSLU focuses on legal issues related to forensic science, particularly Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG), DNA evidence, and the legal strategies surrounding the admissibility of advanced forensic techniques.

Do I need to be a current FBI employee to apply?

No, the announcement is open to various hiring paths, including the public.

Job from Federal Bureau Of Investigation

The FBI is the primary investigative arm of the Department of Justice, dedicated to protecting the American people and upholding the Constitution. Working from Quantico, Virginia, you will be part of one of the world's most advanced crime laboratories, collaborating with scientists on everything from explosives and trace evidence to cutting-edge Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG).