Attorney Adviser (Legal Affairs)

Closing Date: 30th October, 2026

Description:

Job Description:
PARDON is seeking an experienced attorney for the position of Attorney Adviser, to perform duties, including reviewing 925(c) firearms rights restoration applications, evaluating executive clemency petitions, preparing and coordinating litigation activity impacting the Office, and assisting with the component's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act (PA) work. The Attorney Adviser will become familiar with all aspects of relief and executive clemency programs. Among other responsibilities, the Attorney Adviser will review and evaluate the merits of relief or clemency petitions, confer with officials of the DOJ and external agencies regarding relief or clemency applications, collect information and records related to the relief or clemency investigation, produce high-quality, detailed written recommendations, and advise the Pardon Attorney, the Deputy Attorney General, and the White House on the appropriate disposition of individual petitions for relief or clemency. Attorney Advisers will interact with petitioners and their legal representatives and must demonstrate a high level of commitment to professionalism, courtesy, and public service.

Qualifications:
Applicants must possess a J.D. degree, be an active member of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction), have a minimum of three years of post-J.D. experience, and be a U.S. citizen.

The work of the Attorney Adviser requires significant attention to detail and the ability to thoroughly evaluate large case files, identify relevant issues, and recommend decisions. In addition, excellent legal research and analyses, writing skills, and exemplary judgment and discretion are required. A successful candidate will have the ability to manage a significant caseload and work both independently and collaboratively. The Office places a premium on the commitment and ability to prioritize assignments and efficiently produce high-quality work, including substantial, appropriately focused, and well-written work products.

Applicants should also demonstrate compassion and the ability to undertake fair and balanced evaluations of applications submitted by Federal clemency and relief petitioners. This position is located in Washington, DC. This is NOT a fully remote position, and employees will be required to come into the office. An out-of-area applicant who is selected for this position will be expected to relocate at their own expense. This position is telework-eligible consistent with the Office's telework policy.

Preferred Qualifications:
Applicants must have a minimum of 3 years of experience in post-J.D., legal work. Practice experience in federal regulatory, privacy, FOIA, and criminal law, prior federal or administrative litigation experience, and excellent legal research and writing skills are strongly preferred qualifications.

Salary:
The salary range for this position is GS-13/14/15.

Number of Positions
Up to 1.

Travel:

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