Our mission is to enforce the law and defend the interests of the United States, provide Federal leadership in preventing and controlling crime, seek just punishment for those guilty of unlawful behavior, and ensure fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans. We strive to build a stronger office through recruitment efforts and by promoting professional development. We seek to further build on the legacy of excellence built by those who have come before us.
Required Qualifications: Must have graduated with a J.D. degree from an accredited law school or will graduate with a J.D. degree by June 30, 2026. Class rank required within top 1/3 of law school class. If not already licensed, applicant must (1) have taken a state bar exam and are awaiting results or (2) will take a state bar exam within six months of law school graduation. Candidates must be admitted to practice and have an active bar membership before entering on duty. United States citizenship is required. Preferred Qualifications: Hiring preferences also include strong academics, outstanding organizational skills, superior legal writing and research ability, demonstrated analytical ability, good judgment and courtroom skills, and a commitment to professionalism, ethics, civility, and public service. You must meet all qualification requirements before entering on duty.
Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) in the Criminal Division prosecute a wide variety of federal crimes. Individuals chosen to be AUSAs in our office will investigate and prosecute an assortment of cases with a particular focus on those cases involving illegal immigration, drug trafficking, human trafficking, firearms trafficking, human smuggling, and transnational organized crime, including Mexican drug cartels. The qualified applicant would be expected to (a) assist federal law enforcement agents in structuring and implementing criminal investigative plans and strategies; and (b) litigate cases of varying degrees of complexity from start to finish. Responsibilities will increase and assignments will become more complex as your training and experience progress. These positions are located in Del Rio, Midland, and Alpine, Texas. Security Requirements: Initial appointment is conditioned upon a satisfactory preemployment adjudication. This includes fingerprint, credit and tax checks, and drug testing. In addition, continued employment is subject to a favorable adjudication of a background investigation. Residency Requirements: Assistant United States Attorneys generally must reside in the district to which he or she is appointed or within 25 miles thereof. See 28 U.S.C. 545 for district-specific information. Selective Service: If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System, or are exempt from having to do so under the Selective Service Law. See www.sss.gov.