Launch Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in Los Angeles

Are you a litigator seeking to handle the nation's most complex legal matters? The United States Attorney's Office (USAO) for the Central District of California is seeking exceptional attorneys to join its Criminal Appeals Section. This is an opportunity to serve in one of the most high-impact offices in the country.

Job Responsibilities

As an AUSA in the Criminal Appeals Section, you will:

Supervise and handle criminal matters before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Draft briefs and participate in oral arguments.
Consult with the Solicitor General’s Office on high-level legal strategies.
Provide guidance to trial attorneys on complex criminal procedure.

Requirements

To be considered, candidates must:

Hold a J.D. degree.
Maintain an active license to practice law in any U.S. jurisdiction.
Be a United States Citizen.
Pass a thorough background investigation, including drug testing.

Salary and Experience Comparison

Salary is determined based on your professional experience as an attorney.

Experience Level	Grade Level	Salary Potential
0-2 Years	AD-21	$114,525+
3-4 Years	AD-23	Competitive
5 Years	AD-25	Competitive
9+ Years	AD-29	Up to $197,100

Benefits

Federal retirement and insurance programs.
Generous paid time off.
Exposure to high-profile federal litigation.
Potential for recruitment bonuses.

Application Tips

Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less. Highlighting your specific experience in appellate work or federal clerkships will significantly strengthen your application. Always verify that your documentation is attached before submitting.

Serving as an AUSA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service. If you possess the intellect, writing prowess, and dedication required for this role, we encourage you to apply and join our team of professionals.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney Job Matters

Shape the future of federal litigation as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Central District of California, one of the nation's most active and impactful legal offices.

Assistant United States Attorney Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California is seeking high-caliber attorneys to join the Criminal Appeals Section. This role is perfect for legal professionals who excel in complex litigation and wish to contribute to the Department of Justice's mission of upholding the rule of law. You will work on high-stakes appellate matters, including constitutional challenges and significant statutory issues, providing expert counsel within a premier federal environment.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
Willingness to obtain and maintain active membership in the California State Bar.
United States Citizenship.
Successful completion of a rigorous background investigation, including credit and tax checks, and pre-employment drug screening.
Must reside within the district or within 25 miles of the appointment location.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney

Significant litigation experience, particularly in appellate settings.
Superior academic credentials.
Demonstrated expertise in criminal procedure and legal strategy.
Strong connections or ties to the Central District of California.
Experience as a judicial clerk or equivalent high-level practice.
Strong courtroom presence and interpersonal communication skills.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance plans.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Opportunities for telework.
✓Potential for recruitment incentives based on organizational needs.

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

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney Job

Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
Prepare a two-page maximum resume detailing your employment history, hours worked, and specific accomplishments.
Compile required documents: transcripts, cover letter, writing sample, and two references.
Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; excess pages will disqualify your application.
Include specific start/end dates (month/day/year) for all positions listed.
Explicitly highlight your appellate experience and any judicial clerkships.
If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure all supporting documentation, such as the DD-214 or SF-15, is attached.
Double-check that all contact information is accurate to avoid missed interview communications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a member of the California Bar to apply?

You must be an active member of any U.S. jurisdiction's bar at the time of hiring, but you will be required to obtain and maintain active membership in the California bar as a condition of your employment.

What is the salary range for an Assistant United States Attorney?

The salary ranges from $114,525 to $197,100 per year, determined administratively based on your years of professional legal experience.

Is this a permanent position?

This is currently a temporary position with the potential for extension or conversion to permanent status based on the office's needs and your performance.

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

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is dedicated to upholding the rule of law, protecting civil rights, and keeping the nation safe. As part of the Central District of California, you will serve a jurisdiction of nearly 20 million people. Our office is divided into the Criminal, National Security, and Civil Divisions, offering a breadth of experience that is unmatched.