Description:

Job Description and Duties:
The Government Law Section actively recruits highly qualified attorneys to practice in a dynamic and collegial environment, where they frequently handle high-profile and impactful legal matters while serving the public interest. Attorneys provide legal advice and representation, often in the defense of state statues, to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Controller, Treasurer, Secretary of State, Department of Finance, and various other state agencies and departments. The legal matters concern a wide range of issues, including but not limited to: constitutional law and statutory interpretation, government operations, firearms and other public-safety laws, elections, internet privacy, federalism, labor and union issues, housing reform, criminal justice reform, criminal information, state mandates, and other matters. Representation includes appearances in state and federal courts throughout the State at both the trial and appellate levels. Attorneys in the Government Law Section also prepare titles and summaries for ballot measures and analyze proposed state legislation. If you are well qualified and desire to be part of a talented team that furthers California's important public interests every day, we strongly encourage you to apply.

Please let us know how you heard about our position by taking this brief survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/P7X675V.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
 
Working Conditions:
This position may be eligible for telework. The amount of telework is at the discretion of the Department and based on DOJ's current telework policy. While DOJ supports telework, in-person attendance may be required based on operational needs. Employees are expected to be able to report to their worksite with minimal notification if an urgent need arises.

Minimum Requirements:
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • Deputy Attorney General IV
  • Deputy Attorney General
  • Deputy Attorney General III
  • Deputy Attorney General V

Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Department Information:
  • This position is located in the Division of Civil Law, Government Law and may be filled in Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles or San Diego. Please clearly state in your cover letter which city you prefer.
  • The hiring unit has established the following cut-off dates for this job control: every Friday. Applications will be reviewed according to the date of submission. If your application is submitted after the most recent cut-off date, it will be applied to the next review period.
  • DAG V consideration – lateral transfers only.
  • Please disregard the SROA/Surplus language below, as the Department of Justice requires applicants to submit their SROA/Surplus Letter if that is the basis of their eligibility.
  • For more information about the department please visit the Attorney General's website at www.oag.ca.gov.
  • If you are interested in speaking with a Recruiter before submitting your application, please email Recruiters@doj.ca.gov.
  • Please visit our new Become a DOJ Deputy Attorney General | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General

Special Requirements:
  • A fingerprint check may be required
  • Clearly indicate the Job Control (JC-447199) and the title of this position in the "Examination or Job Title(s) For Which You Are Applying" section located on the first page of your state application.
  • May be required to travel to remote locations within the State, sometimes with little notice.
  • If you are sending a paper application, please email the HR contact listed below in order to confirm receipt of your materials.
  • Please note that appointment to the DAG classifications will be made using the following examinations:
    • Attorney exam – less than 5 years of experience: Attorney Examination
    • DAG III exam– at least 5 years of legal experience: DAG III Examination
    • DAG IV exam– at least 6 years of legal experience: DAG IV Examination

Desirable Qualifications:
In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

Very strong research and writing skills. Excellent public speaking and communication skills. The highest level of independent judgment and discretion in handling sensitive matters. Litigation experience in federal and state courts at both the trial and appellate levels. Enthusiasm for the legal subjects routinely handled by the Government Law Section, including governmental powers and processes, constitutional issues, and election law. Ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines. Ability to maintain professionalism under pressure. Ability to work independently and with all levels of staff. Ability to take direction from senior management. Ability to maintain good client relations. Ability to be a creative and resourceful problem solver. Interest in handling complex, high-profile cases of statewide importance. Computer literacy and research skills is needed.