First-Chair Trial & Appellate Attorney (National Courts)

Civil Division; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Justice, Civil Division, National Courts Section, seeks litigators to represent the United States in high‑stakes trial and appellate matters. Attorneys manage their own cases, conduct investigations, and argue before key courts, including trial and appellate levels.

Travel to court locations is expected as part of a national practice. The role emphasizes strong writing, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with opportunities to participate in complex procurement, contracts, and

Qualifications

• Requires a J.D. degree and active bar membership in good standing.
• Minimum post-JD experience varies by grade level (GS-13/14/15).
• Strong writing, negotiation, and interpersonal skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Represent the United States in trial and appellate litigation in the Court of Federal Claims, Court of International Trade, and U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
• Manage own cases at trial, conduct investigations, and handle discovery, depositions, briefs and oral argument.
• Perform appeals work, including strategy, briefing, and collaboration with Federal client agencies.

Skills

Strong writing

Negotiation

Interpersonal skills

Oral advocacy

Education

J.D. degree

Active bar admission (US)

Job description

Department of Justice, Civil Division, National Courts Section, seeks litigators to represent the United States in high‑stakes trial and appellate matters. Attorneys manage their own cases, conduct investigations, and argue before key courts, including trial and appellate levels.

Travel to court locations is expected as part of a national practice. The role emphasizes strong writing, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with opportunities to participate in complex procurement, contracts, and