Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Houston, TX

Government

Houston, TX

Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Houston, TX

Attorney

No

Job Title: Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)

Job Responsibilities:
The Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in the Criminal Division of the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas is tasked with prosecuting a wide range of federal criminal cases. Responsibilities include enforcing federal laws related to organized crime, financial litigation, immigration, drugs, firearms, public corruption, asset forfeiture, and white-collar crime. The role involves frequent courtroom appearances and managing a dynamic caseload that supports the Department of Justice's mission to enforce federal law, defend the interests of the United States, and ensure impartial justice. Duties will become more complex as the attorney gains experience and training. AUSAs are also expected to work collaboratively in a professional team environment with other attorneys, support staff, and investigative agencies.

Education and Experience Information:
- A Juris Doctor (.) degree is required.
- Applicants must be active members of the bar in any . jurisdiction.
- At least one year of . legal or relevant experience is required.
- Preferred qualifications include strong academic credentials, superior legal research and writing skills, quick analytical ability, high-volume courtroom experience, and a commitment to professionalism and public service.
- Courtroom experience, including first-chair jury trials, is preferred.
- Expertise in grand jury practice and experience with investigative and prosecution techniques are desirable.

Salary Information:
Assistant United States Attorney's pay is administratively determined based on the number of years of professional attorney experience. The salary range is from $85,270 to $130,000 per year, which includes a 35% locality pay.

Additional Information:
- Employment conditions require United States citizenship or national status.
- Initial appointment is conditioned upon satisfactory preemployment adjudication, including fingerprint, credit, tax checks, and drug testing.
- Continued employment is subject to a favorable background investigation.
- The position is term-limited, not to exceed March 31, 2028, but may be extended or made permanent without further competition.
- Relocation expenses are not authorized.
- Travel is required, averaging 1 to 5 nights per month.
- The position is located in Houston, Texas, and applicants must reside within the district or within 25 miles thereof.
- Security clearance is required, and a drug test is mandatory.
- Veterans' preference is considered a positive factor in hiring decisions.
- The Department of Justice offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, life insurance, health benefits, and participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System.
- Reasonable accommodations are provided to applicants with disabilities.

Application Process:
Applicants must submit a complete application package, including responses to the online occupational questionnaire, a resume, a cover letter, a writing sample, and any applicable veterans' preference documentation. The application must be submitted by the closing date of September 30, 2025. An attorney interview panel will review applications and make recommendations for interviews. Final job offers will be contingent upon the completion of a suitability/security background investigation.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The United States government does not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors. The Department of Justice is committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment.