Launch Your Legal Career with the Department of Justice in Charleston

Are you looking to make a meaningful impact within the federal legal system? The United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of West Virginia is currently seeking a highly motivated Legal Assistant to join their team in Charleston. This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of administrative precision and federal justice, providing essential support to attorneys tasked with enforcing the nation's laws.

Job Responsibilities

As a Legal Assistant (Office Automation), you will provide comprehensive support to Assistant United States Attorneys. Your daily tasks will include:

Document Management: Preparing, formatting, and proofreading complex legal documents, including complaints, motions, and subpoenas.
Trial Support: Compiling exhibits, preparing witness lists, and assisting in the assembly of trial notebooks.
Administrative Oversight: Maintaining active case calendars, scheduling hearings, and arranging attorney travel.
Research: Conducting non-complex legal research to support litigation efforts.
Software Utilization: Using diverse software tools to produce reports and indices.

Comparison of Grade Levels

Grade Level	Key Requirement	Primary Focus
GS-5	1 Year Specialized Experience	Administrative basics & filing
GS-6	1 Year Specialized Experience	Document assembly & minor research
GS-7	1 Year Specialized Experience	Full litigation support & trial prep

Requirements

To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the specialized experience requirements for the specific grade level (GS-5, GS-6, or GS-7). Candidates must demonstrate the ability to type 40 words per minute with fewer than three errors. Because this is a sensitive position, you will be required to pass a rigorous background check and drug screening.

Salary Overview

This position is compensated according to the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with a current annual salary range of $40,736 to $65,599, depending on the selected grade and experience level.

Benefits

Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Paid annual leave, sick leave, and 11 federal holidays.
Flexible telework policies.
Access to professional training programs.

Application Tips

Respect the Page Limit: Your resume MUST NOT exceed two pages. This is a strict administrative rule.
Quantify Your Experience: Clearly state hours worked per week and specific dates for all previous roles.
Prepare for Assessments: Be ready to complete the online assessment promptly if invited; it is a critical part of the selection process.

Serving the United States as a Legal Assistant is a rewarding career move that provides both personal satisfaction and professional prestige. If you have the administrative expertise and the desire to support the federal justice system, apply to the Southern District of West Virginia today.

Why This Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job Matters

Launch your career in federal justice with the Department of Justice in Charleston—a role where administrative expertise meets public service.

Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of West Virginia is seeking a dedicated Legal Assistant to join their team. This role provides essential administrative and litigation support, ensuring that our legal professionals have the resources necessary to protect the constitutional freedoms and property of citizens. You will gain invaluable experience in a high-impact environment, with clear pathways for professional growth and skill development.

Requirements for Legal Assistant (Office Automation)

U.S. Citizenship
Ability to type at least 40 words per minute with 3 or fewer errors
Must be able to pass a background investigation (Special-Sensitive/High Risk)
Drug testing is required for this position
Selective Service registration for males born after Dec 31, 1959
One year of specialized experience at the GS-4 level (for GS-5), GS-5 level (for GS-6), or GS-6 level (for GS-7), or equivalent education

Preferred Qualifications for Legal Assistant (Office Automation)

Experience managing complex legal files and electronic databases
Proficiency in advanced office automation software
Strong communication skills and attention to detail
Previous experience supporting trial attorneys or preparing litigation documents

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with step increases
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
✓Telework eligibility
✓On-the-job training and professional development

💡 How to Apply Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job

Submit your resume (strictly limited to two pages) and required documents through the USAJobs portal.
Complete the mandatory online Occupational Questionnaire.
If notified, complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments within 48 hours.
Monitor your email and USAJobs account for application status updates.
Provide official transcripts if selected.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume to exactly two pages; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
Highlight specific instances of legal document preparation and software proficiency.
Check for any typos in your application; attention to detail is a core competency.
Set aside three hours for the online assessment, though you may finish sooner.
Ensure your DD-214 or SF-15 is attached if claiming Veterans' Preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.

What is the typing requirement?

You must be capable of typing 40 words per minute with three or fewer errors.

Can I work remotely?

The position is telework-eligible, but it is not a fully remote position and requires being based in Charleston, WV.

What is the security clearance level?

*A: This position is designated as Special-Sensitive/High Risk, requiring a thorough background investigation.*

Can I apply if I don't live in Charleston?

*A: You may apply, but please note that relocation expenses are not paid by the agency.*

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

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is the backbone of the federal legal system. Our mission is to ensure the fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans. Working within the Southern District of West Virginia, you will be part of a professional community dedicated to protecting life, liberty, and the property of citizens. The DOJ is one of the nation's largest employers, offering a stable career path with extensive opportunities for upward mobility.