Trial Attorney

The Appellate Section plays a crucial role in defending the integrity and constitutionality of DOJ's investigations and prosecutions. Appellate Section attorneys write briefs and argue cases in the courts of appeals; prepare draft briefs and certiorari petitions for the Solicitor General (SG); make recommendations to the SG regarding whether further review is warranted when adverse decisions have been rendered; and advise Department leadership and federal prosecutors on criminal-law issues.

As a Trial Attorney in the Appellate Section, the incumbent will: Handle criminal cases in the U.S. Courts of Appeals, including briefing and oral arguments. Cases include those prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and other litigating sections in the Criminal Division. Draft briefs in merits cases before the Supreme Court, either as a party or an amicus, for the Solicitor General. This includes attending moot courts and oral arguments with attorneys from the Solicitor General's Office. Write memoranda recommending whether to seek further review of adverse decisions in criminal cases. Draft briefs for the Solicitor General in opposition to certiorari petitions in the Supreme Court. Provide advice to Department leadership and U.S. Attorneys' Offices on a variety of complex substantive issues.

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.