Attorney

House of Representatives•Washington, DC

11d

About The Position

The House Office of the Legislative Counsel (HOLC) provides expert legislative drafting and related legal services to Members and committees of the House of Representatives on a nonpartisan, impartial, and confidential basis. Its attorneys translate clients’ policy goals into clear, concise, and legally effective legislative language and address a broad range of legal issues, including constitutional, statutory, and administrative law and emerging areas of federal law. Attorneys do not make policy; they ensure legislation accurately reflects the policy of the Member or committee for whom it is drafted. HOLC seeks to hire two attorneys starting in March 2027 and three starting in September 2027. The role may involve short deadlines and work at night or on weekends. Successful candidates demonstrate a commitment to nonpartisan public service, excellent writing, legal analysis, interpersonal and oral communication skills, intellectual curiosity, sound judgment, discretion, and openness to long-term employment with HOLC.

Requirements

Graduate from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association before beginning employment.
Beginning no later than one year after employment commences, maintain active membership in the bar of a state, the District of Columbia, or a U.S. territory.
Be a U.S. citizen.
Demonstrate commitment to nonpartisan public service.
Have exceptional writing, legal analysis, interpersonal, and oral communication skills.
Have a strong academic background and intellectual curiosity.
Work effectively independently and with others, including under pressure.
Maintain effective working relationships with colleagues and clients.
Analyze complex problems and handle difficult situations with judgment, tact, and discretion.
Submit a resume, cover letter, legal writing sample of no more than 10 pages, law school transcript, and contact information for at least three references.
Indicate U.S. citizenship in either the cover letter or resume.

Nice To Haves

Openness to long-term employment with HOLC.
Commitment to improving the efficiency of the federal government, the ideals of the American republic, the rule of law, and the U.S. Constitution.

Responsibilities

Draft legislation and prepare bills at each stage of the legislative process.
Analyze policy proposals, engage with clients, apply relevant legal principles and court decisions, and conduct research to prepare effective statutory language.
Advise clients about the legal effect and constitutionality of proposed legislative measures in the context of existing laws and legislative procedure.
Attend House subcommittee and full committee sessions, as well as House-Senate conference committees.
Respond to questions from legislators and legislative staff.
Lead and participate in drafting sessions and other meetings, both online and in person.
Communicate with stakeholders at the request of a Member or committee as necessary to draft legislation.
After gaining sufficient experience, train and mentor other attorneys.