ASSIST. UNIT HEAD / DEPUTY ATTORNEY GENERAL - SPECIAL VICTIMS CRIMINAL DIVISION - KENT COUNTY

State of Delaware; New York (NY); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Delaware is seeking a Deputy Attorney General to lead the Special Victims Unit in its Criminal Division. This position involves prosecuting sensitive cases like child abuse and sexual assault, demanding strong legal expertise and a commitment to victim advocacy. The role offers opportunities for professional development and impactful work within a dedicated team.

Benefits

Healthcare plan

State pension plan

Over 4 weeks of vacation

3 weeks of paid sick leave

12 weeks of paid parental leave

Loan forgiveness eligibility

Qualifications

• High proficiency in criminal prosecution.
• Ability to manage staff and complex investigations.
• Develop good working relationships with law enforcement and court personnel.

Responsibilities

• Handle caseload of child death, murder, and sexual assault cases.
• Assist Unit Head in directing and managing Deputy Attorneys General.
• Coordinate training and manage unit assignments.

Skills

Criminal prosecution

Managing complex investigations

Trauma-informed prosecution

Education

Delaware Bar membership

Job description

Delawares Attorney General, the States 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 publics access to open government, protect the abused, and much more.

Summary Statement

The Criminal Division is seeking a Deputy Attorney General to serve as the Assistant Unit Head (AUH) for the Special Victims Unit in Kent County. Prosecutors in this unit work closely with medical professionals, detectives, and child welfare experts to investigate cases involving sexual assault, child abuse, child fatalities, and neglect. They evaluate evidence for potential charges and prosecute cases supported by the facts, ensuring justice for the most vulnerable victims. This position is based in historic Dover, Delaware, a central location that offers a short drive to Delaware’s scenic beaches and a comfortable commute from New Castle County. It presents an exciting opportunity for an experienced prosecutor to join a fast-paced, highly specialized unit committed to protecting victims and holding offenders accountable.

As AUH, the selected attorney will play a key leadership role, working alongside a dedicated team handling cases involving sexual offenses, child abuse, domestic violence, and other crimes against vulnerable individuals. The role demands a strong understanding of trauma-informed prosecution, trial advocacy, and victim-centered approaches. The AUH will receive mentorship from experienced leadership, with access to national, regional, and local professional development programs. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of victims while advancing a rewarding career in prosecution.

Essential Functions

As an AUH, this individual will carry their own caseload of child death and murder, child abuse and neglect, and sexual assault cases, in addition to assisting the Unit Head in the directing and managing of other Deputy Attorneys General, administrative and support operations within the Unit; coordination of assignments and training for all unit members, and other managerial tasks as needed. The AUH works closely with law enforcement, child protection agencies, and the Courts to address issues with the cases as well as having “on call” responsibilities to assist police with after-hours investigations.

Job Requirements

A candidate for this leadership position should have the skills necessary to effectively manage staff, engage Deputy Attorneys General in trainings, and have a high proficiency in criminal prosecution. This candidate must be able to manage complex investigations, evaluate cases, determine resolutions, and anticipate legal issues with the ability to research accurately and effectively. In addition, the candidate must be able to develop a good working relationship with detectives, medical personnel, child welfare professionals, other Deputy Attorneys General, support staff and Court personnel. Delaware Bar membership is required.

Conditions of Hire

Criminal background check : A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire. Direct deposit of paychecks is required as a condition of hire. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is part of a job classification that is represented by an exclusive bargaining representative (labor organization), as elected by employees in accordance with Title 29, Chapter 59 and Title 19, Chapters 13 and 16. While this position is now covered under a bargaining unit, a collective bargaining agreement is currently under negotiation, and terms and conditions of employment may be subject to change upon its ratification.

Department of Justice Benefits Include : May be eligible for Loan forgiveness (State and Federal). State of Delaware healthcare plan. State of Delaware pension plan. Over 4 weeks of vacation per year. 3 weeks of paid sick leave per year. 12 weeks of paid parental leave. Possible Overtime and Stipend Opportunities. To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https : / / dhr.delaware.gov / benefits /

Accommodations

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an auxiliary aid or service please call [phone]. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance. The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

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