Launch Your Legal Career: Assistant United States Attorney in Buffalo, NY

The United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Western District of New York is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal). This role provides a unique and challenging opportunity for experienced litigators to represent the interests of the United States, uphold the rule of law, and contribute to the safety and security of the nation. If you are passionate about justice, trial work, and serving the public, this position represents a pinnacle of legal service.

Job Responsibilities

As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in the Criminal Division, your duties will be diverse and highly rewarding. You will be expected to:

Investigate and prosecute a wide range of federal criminal offenses, including drug trafficking, organized crime, cybercrimes, and government program fraud.
Manage all phases of criminal prosecution, from the initial guidance to law enforcement to final appellate arguments.
Conduct grand jury proceedings and lead felony trials.
Collaborate effectively with federal agencies, the court, and internal support staff.

Requirements

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

Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Bar Status: Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
Experience: At least one year of post-J.D. legal or relevant professional experience.
Citizenship: Must be a United States citizen.
Background: Must successfully complete a comprehensive security investigation and drug test.

Quick Requirements Comparison

Requirement	Description
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Education	J.D. Degree Required
Experience	Min. 1 Year post-J.D.
Residency	District or within 25 miles
Security	High-Risk/Sensitive Check

Salary Overview

The salary for this position is administratively determined based on professional attorney experience. The starting range is $65,563, with the potential to reach up to $171,487 annually, reflecting the complexity of the caseload and the experience level of the selected candidate.

Benefits

Working for the Department of Justice comes with a robust benefits package that balances professional demand with personal well-being, including:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Enrollment in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Generous paid time off, including 10+ federal holidays and sick leave accrual.
Opportunities for professional training and career progression.
Flexible work arrangements such as telework where appropriate.

Application Tips

Watch the Page Count: Ensure your resume does not exceed two pages. This is a hard requirement.
Detailed History: Include specific dates, hours worked per week, and a thorough list of your accomplishments in each role.
Veterans' Preference: If applicable, indicate your preference in the questionnaire and attach your supporting documents (e.g., DD-214, SF-15).
Verification: Always verify that your application has been submitted by checking your status on the USAJOBS portal.

Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the integrity of the American judicial system. We are looking for individuals with outstanding legal ability, high moral character, and a passion for litigation to join our Buffalo team. Apply through the official portal before the September 30, 2026, deadline to be considered.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Matters

Join the Western District of New York as an Assistant United States Attorney and lead the charge in upholding justice and protecting our communities.

Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York is seeking a dedicated and experienced attorney to join our Criminal Division in Buffalo, NY. In this role, you will perform the essential work of federal prosecution, handling complex cases ranging from organized crime and drug trafficking to cyber offenses and fraud. If you are a litigator committed to the highest standards of integrity, we invite you to contribute to our mission of ensuring public safety and fair administration of justice.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)

Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Active membership in good standing with the bar of any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
Minimum of one year of post-J.D. legal or relevant professional experience.
Must be a United States citizen.
Must reside within the district of appointment or within 25 miles thereof upon appointment.
Completion of a satisfactory pre-employment background investigation and drug testing.
Registration with the Selective Service System for male applicants born after December 31, 1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)

Substantial experience in criminal trial practice and prosecution.
Strong analytical abilities with the capacity to distill complex legal issues clearly and accurately.
Superior communication, trial advocacy, and legal research skills.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively with courts, colleagues, and law enforcement agencies.
Capacity to operate with minimal supervision in a high-pressure litigation environment.
Advanced proficiency in automated legal research, electronic filing, and digital document management.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Life insurance coverage options.
✓Generous paid time off, including federal holidays, sick leave, and annual leave.
✓Telework eligibility as per agency policy.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.

💡 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 account at the USAJOBS portal.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, ensuring all employment history includes titles, dates, and duties.
Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
Clearly outline your professional experience with specific start and end dates (month/day/year).
If claiming veterans' preference, ensure you upload your DD-214 and any required SF-15 documentation.
Highlight your trial experience prominently, as this is a key focus for the selection panel.
Ensure your responses to the online questionnaire are consistent with the details in your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the residency requirement for this position?

Assistant United States Attorneys must reside within the district of their appointment or within 25 miles thereof.

Are relocation expenses covered for this role?

No, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York does not authorize relocation expenses for this position.

Is there a limit on the length of the resume?

Yes, your resume must not exceed two pages. Failure to adhere to this limit will result in your application being deemed ineligible.

What is the security level of this position?

*A: This is a Special-Sensitive/High Risk position requiring a full security investigation and drug screening.*

How long is the hiring process?

*A: While timelines vary, the office aims to make final job offers within 120 days after the announcement closing date.*

Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys

The Department of Justice (DOJ) serves as the primary federal law enforcement agency in the United States. Within the DOJ, the U.S. Attorney’s Offices act as the local face of federal prosecution. The Western District of New York covers 17 counties and operates from offices in Buffalo and Rochester. Our mission is to prosecute federal criminal violations, defend the U.S. in civil matters, and maintain the public’s confidence through fair and ethical conduct.