Trial Attorney (Detail)

While this vacancy announcement expires April 22, 2024, the announcement may be closed at any time if a selection is made. This assignment is a detail to HRSP working from its office in Washington, D.C. for a period of one year, with the possibility of extension, contingent on the availability of funding. A J.D., or equivalent, degree.

Applicants who possess an equivalent degree rather than a J.D. may be subject to additional review by the Office of Attorney Recruitment and Management. As the federal agency whose mission is to ensure the fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans, the Department of Justice is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. To build and retain a workforce that reflects the diverse experiences and perspectives of the American people, we welcome applicants from the many communities, identities, races, ethnicities, backgrounds, abilities, religions, and cultures of the United States who share our commitment to public service.

As a Trial Attorney, the incumbent independently directs, conducts, and monitors investigations, prepares and conducts trials, and advises on strategies and tactics relating to the prosecution of human rights violations, international violent crime and human smuggling or related criminal immigration offenses.

As a Trial Attorney, the incumbent:

• Investigates and prosecutes cases in federal court, usually in partnership with United States Attorneys' Offices. This includes:
  • Developing and managing criminal investigations and prosecution in all phases of investigation and litigation, including, but not limited to, the use of grand jury, advising federal law enforcement agents, preparing pleadings, and litigating motions and trials before U.S. District Courts across the country; and
  • Handling significant, complex cases and possessing excellent judgment to make decisions regarding a wide variety of strategic litigation-related matters.
• Handles complex, challenging, and potentially novel legal issues. This includes:
  • Serving as a subject matter expert, participating in, and/or providing advice on, activities related to the investigation and litigation of human rights, international violent crime and criminal immigration and human smuggling cases; and
  • Participating in outreach and training as necessary throughout the United States and abroad to a wide variety of audiences.
• Develops and maintains positive and effective relationships with our numerous law enforcement partners, such as federal, military and international investigative agencies. This includes:
  • Providing advice and instructions to AUSAs and law enforcement personnel on complicated questions of law and Departmental policy.
• Develops and maintains positive and effective relationships within the Office. This includes:
  • Mentoring and advising more junior attorneys; and
  • Overseeing and helping to coordinate litigation assignments with paralegals and clerical personnel.
• Advises and consults with the Deputy Chiefs, the Section Chief, the Deputy Assistant Attorney General, the Assistant Attorney General, and others on the status of all cases, matters and policy initiatives. This includes:
  • Collaborating with HRSP managers regarding the Section's programs, including giving advice on strategy and legal complexities, and identifying and developing litigation priorities, policy, and legislative recommendations.

Required: Interested applicants must possess a J.D. degree, be duly licensed and authorized to practice as an attorney under the laws of any State, territory of the United States, or the District of Columbia, and be an active member of the bar in good standing. Applicants must have at least four (4) years post J.D. legal experience, at least two of which involve criminal litigation. All applicants must have, or be eligible for, a top secret or higher security clearance.

Applicants must have, or be able to obtain through their Component/Agency, and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Preferred: Your qualifications will be further evaluated based upon the following competencies and experiences:

• Prior experience as a criminal prosecutor (federal, state, or military);
• Prior trial experience;
• Demonstrated ability to handle complex investigations, particularly those involving violations of federal statutes;
• Superior oral advocacy and writing abilities;
• Superior analytical skills and judgment;
• Demonstrated ability to work well with others, both as a leader and as a team member;
• Prior experience with international tribunals;
• Prior experience with human rights violations and international humanitarian law/the law of armed conflict;
• Experience working with foreign governments, international organizations, and persons from diverse cultures and background; and
• Foreign language skills (preferred but not required).