Attorney Advisor

Closing Date: 26th January, 2026

Description:

About the Office:
The Office of the Pardon Attorney (PARDON) fulfills the duties of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) in support of the President's clemency power under Article II, 2 of the Constitution. For over 130 years, the President has relied on the advice and assistance of the Attorney General in exercising clemency power. PARDON is the office designated to carry out this function under the direction of the Deputy Attorney General. PARDON receives petitions for executive clemency, initiates the necessary investigations, and prepares the recommendations for DOJ leadership and the President in the consideration of all forms of executive clemency, including commutation of sentence, pardon, reprieve, remission of fine, and commutation of the penalty of death. PARDON also investigates applications for the Restoration of Firearms Rights under 18 U.S.C. 925(c). For more information about the Office, please visit our Web page at https://www.justice.gov/pardon.

Job Description:
PARDON is seeking an experienced attorney for the position of Attorney Advisor. The Attorney Advisor will become familiar with all aspects of executive clemency and other relief programs. Among other responsibilities, the Attorney Advisor will review and evaluate the merits of clemency or relief petitions, confer with officials of the DOJ and external agencies regarding clemency or relief applications, collect information and records related to the clemency or relief 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 clemency or relief. Attorney Advisors 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 two years of post-J.D. experience, and be a U.S. citizen.

The work of the Attorney Advisor 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 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 2 years of experience in post-J.D., legal work. Practice experience in federal criminal law, including a thorough understanding of federal sentencing law and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and excellent legal research and writing skills are strongly preferred qualifications.

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

Number of Positions
Up to 4.

Travel:

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