Deputy Attorney General I-V Misdemeanor Trial/Community Engagement Unit

State of Delaware•Dover, DE

3d•$79,508 - $135,154

About The Position

Delaware's Attorney General, the State's chief law enforcement officer, has a broad responsibility to combat crime, uphold civil rights, safeguard families, fight fraud, and protect consumers in the First State. In meeting this mission, Attorney General Kathy Jennings is supported by teams of talented lawyers and staff in the Criminal, Civil, Family, Fraud and Consumer Protection, and Civil Rights and Public Trust Divisions. Each of the more than 500 staff who work in the Office of the Attorney General are dedicated to serving all Delawareans with integrity and passion. Deputy Attorneys General, with critical support from criminal special investigators, victim service specialists, paraprofessionals, and administrative staff, prosecute criminal cases, enforce consumer laws, provide counsel to state agencies, ensure the public's access to open government, protect the abused, and much more. The Criminal Division, Misdemeanor Trial Unit (MTU) in New Castle County, is seeking Deputy Attorneys General (DAGs) to join its team and represent the State of Delaware in handling a high-volume misdemeanor caseload. This position is based in New Castle County and offers a dynamic, collaborative work environment within the state’s busiest jurisdiction. The MTU operates in a fast-paced, team-oriented setting where attorneys have the opportunity to make an immediate impact by protecting victims, supporting communities, and promoting the fair administration of justice. Prosecutors appear in court regularly and try cases frequently, gaining valuable courtroom experience. Successful candidates will receive support from an experienced leadership team, along with access to in-house training and opportunities to attend national, regional, and local conferences and seminars. DAGs in the MTU will develop: A strong understanding of evidentiary rules, court procedures, and applicable statutes Effective negotiation and trial advocacy skills The ability to evaluate cases to ensure just outcomes for victims, the community, and defendants Time management skills to balance a demanding caseload with professional development and work-life balance The experience gained in the Criminal Division provides a strong foundation for becoming a skilled trial attorney. The Division’s mission is to represent the State in all criminal prosecutions while safeguarding the rights of victims and their families, as well as the constitutional rights of the accused. DAGs work closely with law enforcement agencies, providing legal guidance and support throughout investigations and prosecutions.

Requirements

Successful candidates will demonstrate strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to evaluate criminal cases, determine appropriate resolutions, and anticipate legal issues.
They should also be able to build and maintain effective working relationships with other DAGs, support staff, and court personnel.
The position requires initiative and the ability to learn and apply relevant laws and court rules, as well as to develop and demonstrate strong courtroom skills.
Membership in the Delaware Bar is not required; however, applicants must be eligible for limited admission pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 55.

Responsibilities

DAGs will be required to determine which cases should be prosecuted, resolved through plea agreements, or taken to trial.
They will formulate plea offers on a case-by-case basis and try cases that are not otherwise resolved.
DAGs will be expected to handle a wide variety of criminal matters, interact with members of the public, and negotiate with defense counsel.