Become a Key Leader in Pretrial Justice: Supervisory Attorney-Advisor Opportunity
Are you a seasoned legal professional looking to impact the criminal justice system in the nation's capital? The Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) for the District of Columbia is currently accepting applications for the role of Supervisory Attorney-Advisor. This senior-level position offers the chance to serve as the chief legal counsel for an agency dedicated to public safety and evidence-based decision-making.
About the Pretrial Services Agency
The PSA is a vital federal agency that assists judicial officers in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia and the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. By conducting risk assessments and providing supervision services for defendants, the agency plays an integral role in maintaining the balance between individual liberty and public safety.
Job Responsibilities
As a Deputy Assistant Director for the Office of Legal Services, your duties are multifaceted and strategic:
- Chief Legal Counsel: Provide authoritative advice to the Director and senior leadership on complex criminal law, agency operations, and compliance.
- Team Leadership: Supervise legal staff, establishing priorities, evaluating performance, and fostering a collaborative legal environment.
- Policy Development: Lead the creation of policies regarding pretrial rights, records management, and agency ethics.
- Regulatory Compliance: Oversee the agency's privacy program and ensure compliance with federal information security and records management statutes.
- Representation: Represent the PSA in administrative and quasi-judicial proceedings.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-level role, candidates must demonstrate:
- Education: A Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Bar Status: Active membership in the bar of any state or the District of Columbia.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level or its private sector equivalent.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement Type | Essential Criteria |
|---|---|
| Education | J.D. from ABA-accredited school |
| Experience | 1+ year at GS-14 equivalent level |
| Legal Standing | Active Bar member in good standing |
| Clearance | Moderate Risk / Suitability check |
Salary and Benefits
The position is classified at the GS-15 grade level, with a competitive salary range of $169,279 to $197,200 per year, commensurate with federal pay scales.
Application Tips
Success in your application starts with attention to detail. Remember that the agency strictly enforces a 2-page limit on resumes. Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates your supervisory history, as this is a core component of the GS-15 qualification profile. Don't forget to address the optional essay questions; while they are not scored, they are a great way to showcase your dedication to public service and the rule of law.
This position is ideal for an experienced attorney looking to transition into senior management within the federal government. By contributing to the Pretrial Services Agency, you are taking a hands-on role in shaping the legal framework of justice in Washington, D.C.
Why This Supervisory Attorney-Advisor (General) Job Matters
Shape the future of pretrial justice in the nation's capital as a Supervisory Attorney-Advisor with the Pretrial Services Agency.
Supervisory Attorney-Advisor (General) Job Overview
The Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) for the District of Columbia is seeking a highly skilled Supervisory Attorney-Advisor to join its Office of Legal Services. In this pivotal leadership role, you will act as the chief legal expert and counsel to agency leadership, overseeing complex legal matters, policy development, and operational compliance. You will manage a dedicated legal team, represent the agency in administrative proceedings, and play a critical role in advancing pretrial justice and public safety initiatives.
Requirements for Supervisory Attorney-Advisor (General)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school
- Current, active member in good standing of any state bar or the District of Columbia bar
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level (or equivalent in the private sector)
- Must be able to pass a comprehensive background investigation and pre-employment drug screening
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959
- Must be eligible for DC Bar admission without examination per Rule 46(e)(3) if not currently a member
- Ability to submit a 2-page maximum resume
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Attorney-Advisor (General)
- Demonstrated experience in supervising legal staff
- Expertise in criminal justice policy and pretrial service standards
- Proven ability to provide authoritative advice on complex administrative law and privacy regulations
- Strong background in federal records management
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Federal Employee Health Benefits
- ✓Retirement Planning and Pension Programs
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives
- ✓Professional development opportunities in the public sector
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Attorney-Advisor (General) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Attorney-Advisor (General) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages.
- Gather supporting documentation, including law school transcripts and bar membership proof.
- Access the online application portal via the USAJOBS link.
- Complete the online questionnaire and provide responses to optional essay questions regarding your commitment to the rule of law.
- Submit the full package by the closing date of November 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly 2 pages; applications exceeding this limit will be automatically disqualified.
- Explicitly detail your supervisory experience in your resume to ensure you meet the GS-14 equivalence requirement.
- Ensure all education documents, including transcripts, are uploaded before the deadline.
- Review your responses to the evaluation criteria to ensure they mirror the required skills listed in the job description.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum resume length?
All resumes must be 2 pages or less. Submissions exceeding 2 pages will be removed from consideration.
Do I need to be a member of the D.C. Bar specifically?
You must be a member of any state bar or the D.C. Bar. If you are not a D.C. Bar member, you must be eligible for admission under DC Court of Appeals Rule 46(e)(3).
What is the closing date for applications?
Applications must be submitted by November 3, 2026.
Is telework available for this position?
No, this position is not listed as telework-eligible.