Administrative Law Judge

DC Government; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The DC Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) seeks an experienced Administrative Law Judge to adjudicate a wide range of District government matters. The successful candidate will serve as an impartial trier of fact in quasi-judicial proceedings and issue decisions based on the record.

A minimum of five years of legal practice, active District of Columbia Bar membership, and the ability to produce rigorous, fair, and appeal-ready written decisions are required.

Qualifications

• At least five years of legal practice, including substantial litigation experience in court, administrative agencies, or arbitration.
• Ability to produce rigorous, fair, and appeal-ready written decisions accessible to both attorneys and self-represented litigants.

Responsibilities

• Preside over quasi-judicial proceedings and issue decisions based on the record.
• Conduct pre-hearing conferences and oversee evidentiary hearings.
• Review briefs and prepare final written decisions with findings of fact and conclusions of law.
• Mediate disputes when appropriate.
• Manage caseloads and meet statutory timelines.

Skills

Litigation experience

Judicial temperament

Education

District of Columbia Bar member

Job description

DC Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH)

Administrative Law Judge

The DC Office of Administrative Hearings is seeking an experienced and mission‑driven Administrative Law Judge to adjudicate a wide range of District government matters. This role is ideal for an attorney who values impartiality, intellectual challenge, public service, and high‑quality decision‑making.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as an impartial trier of fact in quasi‑judicial proceedings and issue decisions based on the record
• Preside over contested cases under the DC Administrative Procedures Act and agency‑specific statutes and regulations
• Conduct pre‑hearing conferences, rule on motions, issue subpoenas, and oversee in‑person evidentiary hearings
• Review briefs and prepare final written decisions with clear findings of fact and conclusions of law
• Mediate disputes when appropriate
• Manage caseloads efficiently and meet statutory and internal timelines
• Contribute to OAH operations through committee work, mentorship, training, and other agency initiatives

Required Qualifications

• At least five years of legal practice, including substantial litigation experience in court, administrative agencies, or arbitration
• Active member in good standing of the District of Columbia Bar
• Ability to produce rigorous, fair, and appeal‑ready written decisions accessible to both attorneys and self‑represented litigants

Must be domiciled in the District of Columbia at appointment or within 180 days, and maintain District domicile for the duration of the appointment

Why Join OAH and District Government?

• Make a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of District residents
• Engage in diverse, intellectually stimulating legal issues
• Work in a collaborative, mission‑driven environment grounded in fairness, integrity, and public service
• Enjoy judicial independence, supportive leadership, and strong professional development
• Benefit from competitive compensation and the stability of District government service