Become a Trial Attorney with the DOJ Federal Programs Branch
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is looking for talented legal professionals to join the Federal Programs Branch of the Civil Division. If you are an ambitious litigator looking to influence the legal landscape of the United States, this role offers an unparalleled platform. You will represent federal agencies and the Executive Office of the President in high-stakes litigation, ensuring that government policies and actions are defended with excellence in federal district courts.
Job Responsibilities
As a Trial Attorney, your days will be fast-paced and intellectually demanding. Your core responsibilities include:
- Comprehensive Litigation: Managing all phases of district court cases from inception to resolution.
- Discovery and Evidence: Taking and defending depositions and overseeing the production and review of written discovery.
- Advocacy: Drafting briefs, researching complex legal issues, and presenting oral arguments before federal judges.
- Team Collaboration: Partnering with DOJ leadership, federal agency clients, and subject-matter experts to build robust legal defenses.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited school |
| Licensure | Active member in good standing of any U.S. bar |
| Experience | 0 to 4+ years post-J.D. depending on the GS level |
| Clearance | Ability to obtain Top Secret clearance |
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is commensurate with experience, ranging from $85,447 to $197,200 per annum, aligning with the federal General Schedule (GS) scale for attorneys. Advancement potential is significant, with the role offering potential growth up to the GS-15 level.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a stable and comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Extensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- A robust retirement plan via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) accounts with government-matched contributions.
- Competitive leave policies including vacation and sick time.
- Access to professional development training and telework opportunities.
Application Tips
Applying for a Department of Justice attorney position requires attention to detail. Ensure your resume highlights your litigation experience, specifically mentioning your work with depositions, motions, and trials. Because the writing sample is a primary evaluative tool, choose a piece that demonstrates clear, persuasive, and analytical legal writing. Finally, double-check your application package against the requirements checklist before submission.
This role is an exceptional opportunity to serve the public interest while sharpening your skills in federal litigation. If you are ready to take on the challenges of defending federal programs in court, submit your application by November 12, 2026.
Why This Trial Attorney (Federal Programs Branch) Job Matters
Take the lead in high-stakes litigation where the constitutionality of federal policy is on the line. Join the Department of Justice’s Federal Programs Branch and shape the future of American governance.
Trial Attorney (Federal Programs Branch) Job Overview
The Federal Programs Branch of the Civil Division is seeking experienced, versatile Trial Attorneys to represent the United States in challenging and significant litigation. As a litigator in this prestigious office, you will defend federal agencies, the Executive Office of the President, and federal policies in U.S. District Courts across the country, tackling some of the most critical legal questions facing the federal government today.
Requirements for Trial Attorney (Federal Programs Branch)
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) or equivalent degree from an accredited law school.
- Active member in good standing of the bar of any State, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Must meet post-J.D. experience requirements: GS-11 (up to 1 year), GS-12 (1+ years), GS-13 (1.5+ years), GS-14 (2.5+ years), or GS-15 (4+ years).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test.
- Completion of a 2-year trial period.
- If male and born after December 31, 1959, proof of Selective Service registration.
Preferred Qualifications for Trial Attorney (Federal Programs Branch)
- Strong oral advocacy and persuasive legal writing abilities.
- Demonstrated proficiency in drafting and arguing complex motions.
- Experience managing all phases of discovery and leading depositions.
- Capability to identify and prepare expert witnesses.
- Proven track record of managing courtroom trials.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance packages.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Paid federal holidays.
- ✓Potential for flexible work arrangements including telework options.
- ✓Professional growth and training opportunities within the Department of Justice.
💡 How to Apply Trial Attorney (Federal Programs Branch) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Trial Attorney (Federal Programs Branch) Job
- Create or update your account on the official federal hiring portal.
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) and a relevant writing sample (max 10 pages, created within the last 3 years).
- Submit a cover letter outlining your interest and experience.
- Complete the online application and assessment questionnaires.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including veteran preference proof if applicable.
- Finalize the submission through the Department of Justice’s internal Application Manager system.
- Verify submission via the automated email notification.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the start and end dates for your legal experience to accurately demonstrate your grade level eligibility.
- Proofread your writing sample thoroughly; it is a critical measure of your analytical and drafting capabilities.
- Do not wait until the deadline; ensure all documents are uploaded and assigned to the correct category in the portal well before the cutoff.
- If claiming veteran preference, ensure your DD-214 or SF-15 is attached to your submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required for this role?
Yes, this position is designated as Critical-Sensitive/High Risk and requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Does the Federal Programs Branch support telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, allowing for a modern balance of in-office and remote work, subject to agency policy.
What is the nature of the work?
Attorneys in this branch function as generalist litigators, handling a diverse caseload that involves defending federal policies and actions in district courts nationwide.
How long is the trial period?
You will be subject to a 2-year trial period to evaluate your fitness for the role and your contribution to the agency's mission.
Is veteran preference considered?
Yes, the DOJ considers veteran status as a positive factor in the attorney hiring process.
Can I apply if I have an active bar license in a different state?
Yes, as long as you are an active member in good standing of any State, territory, or the District of Columbia bar.
Job from Offices, Boards And Divisions
The Civil Division is one of the largest litigation components within the Department of Justice. With a workforce of over 1,000 attorneys, the division is responsible for representing the United States in a vast array of civil matters. The Federal Programs Branch specifically focuses on constitutional challenges and significant policy disputes, placing its attorneys at the forefront of the most critical legal battles in the nation.