Launch Your Career as an Appellate AUSA in the Southern District of Texas

Are you looking to bridge the gap between private practice and a mission-driven career that changes lives? The United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Southern District of Texas is currently seeking talented, driven, and ethical attorneys to join our Appellate Division in Houston. This is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the rule of law and the administration of justice on a national scale.

Job Responsibilities

As an AUSA in the Appellate Division, you will play a critical role in the federal judicial process. Your primary responsibilities include:

Appellate Advocacy: Researching and drafting complex appellate briefs and presenting oral arguments before the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
Strategic Research: Navigating novel issues involving the Constitution, statutory construction, and evidentiary matters.
Trial Support: Providing real-time support to Criminal Division AUSAs, ensuring that the legal foundations of our cases remain robust from trial through appeal.
Case Management: Handling high-volume caseloads involving immigration, national security, and public safety.

Comparison of Career Paths

Feature	Private Practice	AUSA (Appellate)
Primary Client	Private Entities	The United States
Legal Impact	Commercial/Client-Focused	Policy/Precedent-Setting
Courtroom Time	Variable	Frequent/High-Stakes
Mission	Profit/Revenue	Justice/Public Service

Requirements

Candidates must be highly qualified, self-sufficient, and ready for a fast-paced environment. Key requirements include:

A J.D. degree from an accredited law school.
Active bar membership in any U.S. jurisdiction by the start date.
U.S. Citizenship.
Demonstrated ability to conduct legal research and prepare pleadings independently.

Salary and Benefits

The Department of Justice offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with your years of professional attorney experience, ranging from $88,510 to $197,100. Beyond the compensation, AUSAs enjoy a robust federal benefits package:

Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Leave: Generous paid vacation, sick time, and federal holidays.
Health: Excellent health insurance options for you and your family.
Lifestyle: Flexibility in telework options and a supportive professional environment.

Application Tips

Respect the Constraints: The two-page resume limit is strict. Do not exceed it.
The Writing Sample: Select a piece that shows your ability to structure complex arguments. It must be your own work from the last three years.
Early Submission: The first round of reviews begins September 3, 2026. Applying before this date will give your application the most visibility.
Clarity is Key: Address your cover letter to the U.S. Attorney, Aaron F. Reitz, and ensure your experience highlights your specific contributions to legal teams.

Joining the Appellate Division in the Southern District of Texas offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of federal law. If you are an attorney ready to accept the challenges of high-stakes litigation, we encourage you to apply. Your contribution will ensure that justice is administered fairly and effectively for all Americans.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate) Job Matters

Step into the front lines of justice with the Southern District of Texas. As an Appellate AUSA in Houston, you will help shape federal law, argue before the Fifth Circuit, and protect the public in one of the nation's most dynamic legal districts.

Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate) Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas is seeking highly motivated legal professionals to join the Appellate Division in Houston. This role offers the chance to handle high-stakes criminal appellate matters, draft complex briefs, and provide critical trial support. If you are an attorney driven by the mission of the Department of Justice and possess the grit to handle a fast-paced caseload, this role provides an unparalleled opportunity for professional growth and public service.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate)

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or equivalent.
Active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction by the entry-on-duty date.
United States citizenship.
Registration with the Selective Service System (for males born after Dec 31, 1959).
Ability to pass a rigorous background investigation and drug test.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate)

Superior legal research and writing capabilities.
Demonstrated experience in high-volume briefing and appellate courtroom procedures.
Strong organizational skills and ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment.
High level of professional ethics, civility, and commitment to public service.
Proven ability to manage independent legal research and prepare pleadings.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance plans.
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Life insurance options.
✓Potential for telework based on agency policy.
✓Professional development and mentorship in a federal environment.

💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Submit your resume (strict 2-page limit) detailing your work history and duties.
Draft a persuasive cover letter addressed to U.S. Attorney Aaron F. Reitz.
Prepare a legal writing sample (max 20 pages, composed within the last 3 years).
Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
Submit all documents by the deadline and track status via your account portal.

💡 General Tips

Apply early; the candidate list is reviewed every 30 days and the first round of consideration begins September 3, 2026.
Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit, or you will be disqualified.
Clearly indicate any veterans' preference and attach all required documentation (e.g., DD 214, SF 15) if applicable.
Use your most compelling writing sample that demonstrates your ability to articulate novel or complex legal issues.
Verify your status on the USAJOBS portal periodically to ensure your documents have cleared the virus scan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary is administratively determined based on your professional legal experience, ranging from $88,510 to $197,100 per year.

Can I apply if I am currently a law student?

Yes, law students graduating or taking the bar exam in July 2026 may be considered, provided they meet the bar admission requirements by their start date.

Is residency in Houston required?

Generally, Assistant United States Attorneys must reside within the district to which they are appointed or within 25 miles thereof.

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

The Southern District of Texas covers over 44,000 square miles and serves approximately 10 million people. Operating at the front lines of border security, narcotics enforcement, and the prosecution of violent crime, our office is one of the most active in the United States. Working as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) means joining the esteemed Department of Justice (DOJ) team, dedicated to defending the interests of the United States and protecting the rights of all citizens.