Become an Assistant United States Attorney in Los Angeles
If you have a passion for justice and a desire to serve the public, the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Central District of California offers an unparalleled opportunity. As one of the largest and most influential districts in the nation, the Central District covers a vast region and handles some of the most complex federal litigation in the country.
Job Responsibilities
As an AUSA, your responsibilities will grow alongside your professional development. You will:
- Prosecute federal criminal cases in the Central District.
- Advise federal law enforcement on complex investigations.
- Present evidence and indictments to the grand jury.
- Represent the United States in criminal trials and appellate courts, including the Ninth Circuit.
- Address emerging cyber and national security threats.
Requirements
To be eligible for this competitive role, candidates must meet the following baseline criteria:
- Education: A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Bar Status: Active membership in any U.S. bar; willingness to obtain California bar membership.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Clearance: Must pass an extensive suitability background investigation, including drug testing and credit checks.
Salary and Benefits
Compensation is calculated based on experience level. The following table illustrates the current administratively determined (AD) salary grades based on years of practice:
| Years of Experience | AD Grade |
|---|---|
| 0-2 Years | AD-21 |
| 3-4 Years | AD-23 |
| 5 Years | AD-25 |
| 6 Years | AD-26 |
| 7 Years | AD-27 |
| 8 Years | AD-28 |
| 9+ Years | AD-29 |
Application Tips
- Watch the Resume: The strict two-page limit is non-negotiable. Ensure your formatting is clean and professional.
- Include Details: When listing past experience, include specific dates (month/day/year) and the hours worked per week.
- Veterans: If claiming preference, ensure your DD-214 and relevant SF-15 documentation are attached properly.
Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than a job; it is a commitment to the rule of law. With the opportunity to work in a high-volume office and tackle critical national security issues, your contribution will directly protect the lives and property of millions. Apply today to begin the path toward a rewarding career in federal service.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney Job Matters
Join the front lines of federal justice. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California is seeking high-caliber legal minds to protect the nation, uphold the rule of law, and prosecute critical cases in one of the most dynamic districts in the country.
Assistant United States Attorney Job Overview
As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in the Central District of California, you will play a pivotal role in the Department of Justice's mission. This high-impact position involves prosecuting federal criminal cases, addressing national security and cyber threats, and representing the United States in court. You will work within a diverse, mission-driven team dedicated to protecting the rights and safety of nearly 20 million residents.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Must obtain and maintain active membership in the California bar (if not already held).
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to pass a rigorous background investigation, including credit, tax, and fingerprint checks.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
- Residency within the district or within 25 miles thereof.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney
- Substantial experience in litigation or trial practice.
- Superior academic credentials and a record of legal excellence.
- Demonstrated commitment to public service.
- Proven experience handling complex criminal or national security investigations.
- Strong connection to the Central District of California.
- Exceptional legal writing and courtroom advocacy skills.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure based on years of legal experience.
- ✓Opportunity to work on nationally significant criminal and security cases.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Professional development and mentorship in the Department of Justice.
- ✓Contribution to meaningful public service and civil rights protection.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
- Gather your official transcripts, a high-quality writing sample, a cover letter, and two professional references.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the online portal.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any resume exceeding two pages will lead to automatic disqualification.
- Clearly detail your employment history, including exact start/end dates and average weekly hours worked.
- Emphasize any volunteer work or community service that showcases your dedication to public interests.
- Veterans should include all necessary supporting documentation like the DD-214 and SF-15 form if claiming preference.
- Double-check your application for completion before clicking the submit button, as incomplete files are not reviewed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary for this role?
Compensation is administratively determined based on the years of experience as a licensed attorney, ranging from $114,525 to $197,100 annually.
Do I need to be a member of the California Bar?
You must be an active member of any U.S. bar to apply, but if selected, you will be required to successfully take and pass the California Bar exam if you do not already hold that specific membership.
Is there a residency requirement for this position?
Yes, AUSAs are generally required to reside within the district to which they are appointed or within 25 miles of its borders.
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. Attorneys' Offices are the frontline defenders of the nation’s interests. The Central District of California office is dedicated to enforcing federal criminal and civil laws, managing national security threats, and ensuring the protection of civil rights. Employees enjoy a challenging environment that prioritizes legal excellence and public integrity.