Trial Attorney (Constitutional Torts Staff)

Offices, Boards and Divisions•Washington, DC

About The Position

The Constitutional Torts Staff seeks attorneys to defend federal officials facing individual-capacity litigation for actions taken on behalf of the United States. Trial Attorneys personally represent line-level and high-level federal officials who face potential personal exposure for carrying out law enforcement and other government activities. The office’s litigation spans many areas of government. The attorney represents federal officials in civil litigation and other individual-capacity matters; researches and prepares motions, briefs, memoranda, and other legal documents; conducts discovery; and prepares for and conducts hearings, settlement negotiations, and trials. The attorney reviews facts, develops evidence, applies legal principles, examines witnesses, and consults with senior attorneys on trial strategy and settlements. The role also involves addressing legal and policy questions, reporting on case status, building working relationships with officials and employees, and potentially responding to inquiries from government bodies and private individuals. Special legal and administrative projects may also be assigned. Applicants must hold a J.D. or equivalent, be an active member in good standing of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction, and be a U.S. citizen. Required post-J.D. legal experience depends on grade: at least 1.5 years for GS-13, 2.5 years for GS-14, or 4 years for GS-15. The position may require a two-year trial period and the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with eligibility for SCI access, depending on assignment or duty location.

Requirements

J.D. degree or equivalent.
Active membership in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
U.S. citizenship.
Minimum post-J.D. legal experience: 1.5 years for GS-13, 2.5 years for GS-14, or 4 years for GS-15.
Must complete a background investigation, including drug testing.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with eligibility for SCI access, depending on organizational assignment or duty location.
Must complete a two-year trial period if required as a condition of employment.
Selective Service registration is required when applicable.
Must disclose financial information in accordance with DOJ and federal ethics guidelines if selected.
Candidates should be committed to improving federal government efficiency, passionate about the ideals of the American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution.

Nice To Haves

Outstanding writing skills, strong interpersonal skills, good judgment, and an interest in litigation.
Experience with federal court motions practice.
Interest in developing expertise across the listed litigation areas and experience in at least one of the following: dealing with individual clients, asserting personal defenses through dispositive motions, handling discovery, or preparing cases for trial.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Comfort working in varied federal courtroom settings and willingness to travel occasionally.
Ability to work supportively and professionally with clients, staff, attorney supervisors, and Department officials.

Responsibilities

Represent federal officials in their personal capacity in civil litigation and other matters brought against them individually.
Prepare motions, briefs, and other documents based on factual and legal research.
Conduct discovery.
Prepare for and conduct hearings, settlement negotiations, and trials.
Review and analyze facts and assist in developing evidence during case preparation.
Apply legal principles to facts and examine witnesses.
Consult with more senior attorneys when planning trial strategy.
Work with opposing counsel to formulate settlements in consultation with more senior attorneys.
Discuss legal and policy questions related to statuses administered by the Section with more senior attorneys.
Prepare memoranda applying relevant statutory and regulatory authority and evaluating legal, factual, and policy considerations.
Report case and matter status and legal issues to the Assistant Director, Deputy Director, and Director as appropriate.
Establish personal contacts and work with Division officials and employees on litigation and policy-related matters.
May assist with responses to inquiries from the White House, Congress, federal departments and agencies, state and local authorities, and private individuals.
Perform special legal and administrative projects requiring legal experience and sound judgment, as requested.