Become an Assistant General Counsel for the Federal Bureau of Prisons
Are you a seasoned legal professional passionate about the intersection of public safety, civil rights, and correctional policy? The Department of Justice is currently seeking an Assistant General Counsel to join the Legislative and Correctional Issues (LCI) Branch of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). This position offers the rare opportunity to shape policy at the highest levels of federal corrections.
Job Responsibilities
The incumbent will handle a wide array of legal challenges, including:
- Providing expert counsel on the management of correctional facilities.
- Implementing the First Step Act of 2018.
- Reviewing policies regarding the civil commitment of sexually dangerous persons.
- Advising on federal sentencing and sentence calculation.
- Coordinating with other DOJ components on national security and counter-drone initiatives.
Quick Comparison: Career Expectations
| Feature | Requirement / Detail |
|---|---|
| Job Level | GS-14/15 |
| Employment Type | Excepted Service |
| Citizenship | Mandatory U.S. Citizenship |
| Travel | Occasional Travel Required |
| Application Method | Direct Email to Hiring Branch Chief |
Requirements
Candidates must hold a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants must demonstrate a strong understanding of legal research and writing. While not required, prior experience in correctional law or federal litigation is highly valued.
Salary and Benefits
The starting salary range for this position is $143,913 to $197,200 annually. Employees receive comprehensive federal benefits, including medical insurance, retirement plans, and the stability associated with Department of Justice employment.
How to Apply
To apply, you must submit a two-page resume, a cover letter, college transcripts, a writing sample, and references to [email protected] by November 3, 2026. Please ensure the email subject line reads: 'LCI Assistant General Counsel - November 2026.'
This role is an excellent fit for attorneys who thrive in complex regulatory environments. By providing legal clarity to the Bureau of Prisons, you directly support the agency's mission to develop good neighbors and ensure public safety.
Why This Assistant General Counsel (Legislative And Correctional Issues Branch) Job Matters
Shape the future of correctional law with the Bureau of Prisons as an Assistant General Counsel.
Assistant General Counsel (Legislative And Correctional Issues Branch) Job Overview
The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is seeking a highly skilled Attorney for the Legislative and Correctional Issues Branch (LCI). In this pivotal role, you will provide critical legal counsel on complex issues ranging from the First Step Act implementation and compassionate release to the management of secure correctional facilities. You will collaborate with senior leadership and Department of Justice officials to influence federal policies and navigate the intricacies of correctional law.
Requirements for Assistant General Counsel (Legislative And Correctional Issues Branch)
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited institution.
- Current active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- United States citizenship is mandatory.
- Must pass pre-employment screenings, including physicals and background checks.
- Must meet residency requirements (lived in the U.S. for at least 3 of the last 5 years).
- Must pass a review of income tax filing history.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant General Counsel (Legislative And Correctional Issues Branch)
- Demonstrated experience in correctional law.
- Background in federal or civil litigation.
- Experience advising senior-level stakeholders on complex statutory interpretations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package.
- ✓Opportunity to work on landmark national security and correctional initiatives.
- ✓Collaborative work environment with federal and executive branch officials.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package (subject to standard eligibility).
💡 How to Apply Assistant General Counsel (Legislative And Correctional Issues Branch) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant General Counsel (Legislative And Correctional Issues Branch) Job
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages, including start/end dates (MM/YYYY) and hours worked per week.
- Draft a cover letter highlighting your relevant legal experience.
- Compile your college transcripts and a writing sample.
- Create a list of legal references.
- Email your full application packet to the hiring contact ([email protected]) with the subject line 'LCI Assistant General Counsel - November 2026' before November 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; non-compliant applications will be disqualified.
- Ensure your resume explicitly lists the hours worked per week for each role.
- Highlight your specific experience in correctional or civil litigation in your cover letter.
- Submit your documents as high-quality, legible files to avoid processing delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located in Washington, D.C., and does not offer remote or telework options.
Do I need to apply through USAJobs?
No. For this specific role, please follow the direct email application instructions provided in the announcement.
What is the key focus of this branch?
The Legislative and Correctional Issues Branch provides legal advice on facility management, First Step Act implementation, sentencing calculations, and policy drafting.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is responsible for the secure, humane, and efficient management of federal inmates. LCI attorneys serve as the primary legal advisors for the Bureau, ensuring that correctional practices comply with evolving federal statutes, the First Step Act, and constitutional mandates.