Litigation Attorney - Department of Corrections

State of Vermont•Waterbury, CT

20d•Onsite

About The Position

The Vermont Attorney General’s Office, Agency of Human Services Legal Division, has an immediate opening for a full-time Assistant Attorney General representing the Vermont Department of Corrections (DOC). Located in Waterbury, Vermont, the DOC Litigation Unit defends the DOC, its employees, and the State of Vermont in civil actions, habeas corpus petitions, small claims actions, and administrative actions in Vermont state civil courts, federal courts, and occasionally state criminal courts. The attorney handles all aspects of litigation, including discovery, motion practice, trial practice, and appeals to the Vermont Supreme Court. DOC attorneys may also advise the Department on other legal issues. The position offers the opportunity to work with a team of professional litigators in a supportive environment and build trial advocacy skills in state and federal courts. The position is exempt. Salary and benefits are based on qualifications and experience under the State of Vermont Attorney Pay Plan. Applicants must submit a letter of interest, a resume listing their complete professional legal experience and all bar admissions with admission dates, references, and two writing samples by email; online applications are not accepted. The application deadline is November 27, 2026.

Requirements

Be a member in good standing of the Vermont bar or eligible to be waived in.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Strong negotiation skills.
Ability to interpret and apply laws, policies, and court decisions in a fast-paced litigation environment.
Willingness to undertake occasional travel.
Ability to work independently within the structure of a government legal team.
Self-reliance and IT skills.
Knowledge of state and federal civil procedure.

Nice To Haves

Relevant litigation experience, especially in Vermont courts.

Responsibilities

Represent the Vermont Department of Corrections.
Defend the DOC, its employees, and the State of Vermont in civil actions, habeas corpus petitions, small claims actions, and administrative actions in state civil courts, federal courts, and occasionally state criminal courts.
Conduct all aspects of litigation, including discovery, motion practice, trial practice, and appeals to the Vermont Supreme Court.
Provide legal advice to the Department on other legal issues as needed.