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

The United States Attorney's Office (USAO) for the Eastern District of Michigan is currently accepting applications for Assistant United States Attorney positions. This is a rare opportunity for dedicated legal professionals to serve on the front lines of federal litigation. Whether your expertise lies in criminal prosecution, civil defense, or appellate advocacy, the Department of Justice offers an environment where your work directly impacts the safety and civil rights of the nation.

Job Responsibilities

As an AUSA, you will handle a diverse and challenging caseload. Depending on your assigned division, your duties may include:

Criminal Division: Investigating and prosecuting federal crimes such as violent offenses, drug trafficking, white-collar fraud, and terrorism.
Civil Division: Representing the United States in defensive and affirmative litigation, including civil rights enforcement, tort claims, and environmental litigation.
Appellate Division: Drafting complex appellate briefs and presenting oral arguments before the U.S. Court of Appeals on critical constitutional and statutory issues.

Feature	Details
Location	Detroit, MI
Salary Range	$84,655 – $197,100
Deadline	Oct 19, 2026
Schedule	Full-Time

Requirements

To be considered for this high-stakes role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Active standing in any state or territory bar.
U.S. Citizenship (mandatory).
Ability to pass a rigorous background check, including financial and drug screening.

Salary and Benefits

Compensation is based on experience and locality pay, with the potential to reach $197,100 per year in the Detroit area. The Department of Justice provides a world-class benefits package, including:

Comprehensive health and life insurance.
Federal pension (FERS) participation.
Generous paid leave accrual.
Flexible work arrangements including telework options.

Application Tips

The hiring process is highly competitive. To maximize your chances:

Format Matters: Keep your resume strictly under two pages. It is the most common reason for disqualification.
Writing Samples: Choose a sample that reflects your ability to synthesize complex law with factual evidence.
Be Precise: Ensure you correctly fill out the organizational questionnaire to indicate which divisions interest you.

Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than a job; it is a commitment to public service and the integrity of the American judicial system. If you are prepared to bring your skills to one of the most respected law offices in the country, apply today via the USAJOBS portal.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney Job Matters

Join the Eastern District of Michigan’s elite legal team as an Assistant United States Attorney and uphold the rule of law in a high-impact, mission-driven environment.

Assistant United States Attorney Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan is seeking motivated attorneys to join its Criminal, Civil, and Appellate Divisions. As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA), you will serve on the front lines of federal law enforcement, protecting civil rights, public safety, and the interests of the United States. This role offers the opportunity to handle complex investigations, high-stakes litigation, and meaningful public service in a jurisdiction covering 34 counties.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
United States citizenship.
Must pass a pre-employment suitability and security background investigation, including drug testing.
Must register with the Selective Service System if applicable (males born after Dec 31, 1959).
Must generally reside within the district or within 25 miles thereof upon appointment.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney

Strong analytical skills regarding complex legal and factual issues.
Excellent written and oral communication capabilities.
Proven litigation experience and courtroom presence.
Demonstrated commitment to public service and high ethical standards.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Superior academic record and professional character.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary with Locality Pay
✓Comprehensive Health Insurance
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
✓Life Insurance coverage
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
✓Telework opportunities
✓Relocation incentives for qualified candidates

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

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney Job

Create a profile on USAJOBS and upload your required documents.
Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire through the application link.
Submit your resume (strict 2-page limit), legal writing sample (max 15 pages), cover letter, and proof of bar membership.
Complete the required organizational questionnaire specifying your preferred division.
Submit your application package by the closing date of October 19, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must not exceed two pages; check formatting requirements carefully to avoid disqualification.
Tailor your cover letter to demonstrate your specific interest in the division you are applying for (Criminal, Civil, or Appellate).
Ensure your writing sample is your own original work and demonstrates your ability to apply law to complex facts.
Verify your application status via the USAJOBS portal after submission.
If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure you include appropriate documentation like your DD-214 and SF-15.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for multiple divisions?

Yes, you should specify your interest in the Criminal, Civil, and/or Appellate Divisions within the required organizational questionnaire.

Is residency in the district required?

Generally, yes. Assistant U.S. Attorneys must reside in the district to which they are appointed or within 25 miles thereof.

What is the page limit for the resume?

The resume must not exceed two pages. Exceeding this limit will result in immediate disqualification.

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

The Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys manages the 94 offices that represent the federal government across the country. The Eastern District of Michigan is a sprawling jurisdiction covering 34 counties. Our attorneys uphold the rule of law without bias, acting as the primary legal representatives of the United States in federal court. We pride ourselves on ethical excellence, fairness, and a diverse workforce that values unique perspectives.