Job Responsibilities
This is a 40-hour a week job most of the time. Breadth of
responsibility is very wide and includes many matters that are
not strictly legal advice but rather management guidance. In
addition to advice on administrative law matters, including
procurement, personnel, appropriations, torts and security
issues, criminal law and civil recovery cases are presented.
Much time is spent giving advise on agency reviews, sometimes
informally. The most effort is in producing agency position
papers, guides and regulatory review. Litigation and trial work
are periodically involved, as is supervision of retained counsel
who litigate on behalf of the agency. In addition, coordination
with the Department of Justice, the federal government's
litigation authority is part of the job in most agencies.
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Job Requirements
This is a very senior position requiring more than 20 years of
experience as a lawyer in a variety of settings. A Juris Doctor
degree and bar admission are required. After the first 5 y ears
of work in government most agencies don't require submission of a
transcript as part of the application process (Army is a noteable
exception). High level of performance in successively demanding
positions is required. Experience as a supervisor in not a pre-
requisite, but does give credibility when advising managers on
personnel issues and in resolving litigation in EEO or adverse
actions.
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Uppers
The variety of challenges presented every day is the best part. The opportunity
to feel that what you do makes a real difference to the country and the people is
a primary motivator for public service. The pay is enough to live comfortably.
The stability and predictability of government service gives a sense of security
which becomes more valuable as time goes by. The chance to do very meaningful
work with people who genuinely care about the issues is very gratifying.
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Downers
Working in a large government organizations can be frustrating at
times. Dealing with political agendas that change with
administrations can be demoralizing. Politics of issues can be
counterproductive in general. Some government offices are not
comfortable, DOD offices can be unhealthy and in bad locations.
Uncaring personnel offices hamper productivity and cause career
damage by thier errors.
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Lifestyle
Work hours are generally 8 - 5 and flex time is available; work 9 days and have
every other Friday off. 28 days of vacation and sick leave are good benefits.
Travel is at the lowest rates and hotel reimbursement is not always enought to
pay to whole bill. Social events are paid for by employees, with government
support generally prohibited. Dress is professional, dress down is still not for
those who want to be upwardly mobile. Diversity is a strength, government is the
first place to open its doors to women and minorities in the professions.
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Compensation
Salary is the public GS scale: lawyers usually start at the 50K
level and at the top of the scale can make 160s with bonus
potential of 10 - 20K - not nearly what is available in the
private sector, but time and stability are the trade-offs. 401
plans are available and health insurance is partially paid.
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Advice to Jobseekers
There are lots of jobs in government and it is a great place to
both start and finish your career as an attorney.
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