Become a Trial Attorney with the DOJ Fraud Division
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is a cornerstone of American democracy, dedicated to upholding the rule of law and protecting the interests of the public. The Fraud Division’s Public Trust & Financial Integrity Section is currently seeking highly skilled, motivated attorneys to join their team. If you are an experienced litigator looking to transition your career into public service, this is a unique opportunity to fight financial fraud and protect taxpayer dollars.
Job Responsibilities
As a Trial Attorney in the Public Trust & Financial Integrity Section, your work will be at the forefront of national financial litigation. You will:
- Conduct Investigations: Lead grand jury investigations and collaborate with law enforcement agents.
- Litigate Cases: Represent the United States in district court proceedings across the country.
- Develop Strategy: Formulate charging decisions and litigation priorities in complex financial cases.
- Collaborate: Work alongside Assistant U.S. Attorneys and regulatory experts to build airtight cases against domestic and foreign criminal actors.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | GS-14 Level | GS-15 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Min. Legal Experience | 2.5 Years | 4 Years |
| Specialized Experience | 1 Year at GS-13 level | 1 Year at GS-14 level |
| Role Complexity | Advanced Analysis | Expert/Lead Litigation |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must be a J.D. graduate and an active member of the bar in good standing. Success in this role requires a deep understanding of criminal litigation, superior analytical skills, and the ability to maintain the highest ethical standards while navigating complex financial evidence.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary, ranging from $107,446 to $197,200 annually, depending on the specific duty location and grade level. The compensation package reflects the high level of expertise required for these critical roles.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Justice enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Access to comprehensive health insurance programs.
- Generous annual and sick leave policies.
- Opportunities for professional growth through internal leadership and legal training programs.
Application Tips
Since this is a high-demand role, ensure your application package clearly highlights your litigation history. Focus on your experience with federal or complex criminal cases. Because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, applying promptly is encouraged to maximize your visibility to hiring managers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I apply through USAJobs? A: No, all applications must be submitted via the official Department of Justice Legal Careers portal.
Q: Is this a remote position? A: The position is not fully remote; however, telework eligibility may be available depending on official policy and department needs.
Serving as a Trial Attorney for the Public Trust & Financial Integrity Section is a significant commitment to justice. If you possess the experience, integrity, and dedication to serve the American people, we encourage you to apply through the DOJ’s official portal.
Why This Trial Attorney (Public Trust & Financial Integrity Section) Job Matters
Protect the American economy and pursue justice by joining the Department of Justice's elite Public Trust & Financial Integrity Section.
Trial Attorney (Public Trust & Financial Integrity Section) Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Justice's Fraud Division is seeking experienced Trial Attorneys to investigate and prosecute complex financial crimes. This role focuses on high-stakes litigation involving procurement fraud, securities manipulation, and systemic abuse of federal programs. You will join a mission-driven team dedicated to safeguarding taxpayer dollars and upholding the rule of law on a national scale.
Requirements for Trial Attorney (Public Trust & Financial Integrity Section)
- Possession of a J.D. or equivalent law degree.
- Active member of the bar in good standing in any U.S. State, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- For GS-14: Minimum 2.5 years post-J.D. legal experience, including one year of specialized litigation experience equivalent to GS-13.
- For GS-15: Minimum 4 years post-J.D. legal experience, including one year of specialized litigation experience equivalent to GS-14.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Special-Sensitive/High Risk security clearance.
- Passing a pre-employment drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Trial Attorney (Public Trust & Financial Integrity Section)
- Extensive experience as a federal criminal prosecutor.
- Significant background in private practice legal work.
- Proven track record in litigating, supporting, or supervising federal or state criminal cases.
- Demonstrated expertise in U.S. District Court or state court proceedings.
- Deep familiarity with the federal judiciary and courtroom litigation procedures.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Eligibility for telework arrangements
💡 How to Apply Trial Attorney (Public Trust & Financial Integrity Section) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Trial Attorney (Public Trust & Financial Integrity Section) Job
- Review the full position requirements on the official DOJ Legal Careers portal.
- Prepare your resume, cover letter, and legal writing sample.
- Follow the specific instructions on the DOJ job page to submit your application package.
- Monitor your email for status updates as reviews are conducted on a rolling basis.
💡 General Tips
- Highlight your specific litigation experience in complex financial or white-collar cases in your resume.
- Ensure your bar status is clearly indicated as active and in good standing.
- Submit your application early, as the department reviews candidates on a rolling basis beginning in October 2026.
- Tailor your writing sample to showcase your ability to handle complex legal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for this position?
Applications are not processed through USAJobs. You must submit your materials directly via the U.S. Department of Justice's Legal Careers website.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for these positions.
What is the security clearance level required?
The position requires a Special-Sensitive (SS)/High Risk clearance, including Sensitive Compartmented Information access.
Job from Offices, Boards And Divisions
The Department of Justice serves as the nation’s legal representative and guardian of public safety. The Fraud Division is specifically tasked with investigating and prosecuting sophisticated criminal schemes that undermine the American economy. By partnering with regulatory agencies and law enforcement at all levels, the Division ensures that those who exploit federal programs, investors, and consumers are held accountable.