1

Assistant District Attorney Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Staff Attorney

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$74K - $138K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Visitnewbern.com The United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina is ... The incumbent may assist the court with substantial pretrial hearings, trials, and other court ...

Assistant District Attorney information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$36K

$79.6K

$145.3K

How much do assistant district attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant district attorney in Raleigh, NC is $79,587.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,800.00 and $90,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant district attorney?

An assistant district attorney (ADA) is a member of law enforcement who conducts criminal prosecutions on behalf of the city or county district attorney’s office.There are many different types of ADAs and positions depend on experience and specialty, such as civil or criminal law. Your primary duties as an assistant district attorney are to review all the evidence in a particular criminal case and decide whether or not to proceed with a criminal prosecution against the defendant. You interview police officers, witnesses, victims, and specialists about the case and consult with the district attorney before deciding to go forward, offer a plea, or drop the case.

What does an assistant district attorney do?

An Assistant District Attorney (ADA) is a public prosecutor who represents the government in criminal cases at the county or district level. ADAs review evidence, decide whether to bring charges, and conduct prosecutions in court. Their duties include preparing cases, negotiating plea bargains, presenting evidence, and working closely with law enforcement. They play a key role in ensuring justice is served within their jurisdiction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant district attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant District Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar licensure, and a strong grasp of criminal law, trial procedure, and legal research. Familiarity with case management software, legal databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and courtroom technology is essential. Outstanding oral advocacy, ethical judgment, and the ability to work under pressure are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure effective prosecution, upholding of justice, and strong public trust in the legal system.

What are some common challenges assistant district attorneys face when managing their caseloads?

Assistant District Attorneys often juggle a high volume of cases with varying levels of complexity, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Balancing court appearances, motion practice, and meetings with victims or law enforcement can be demanding, especially when preparing for trial deadlines. Additionally, handling sensitive cases and making prosecutorial decisions under public scrutiny can add emotional and ethical challenges. Support from colleagues and clear communication within the office are vital for managing these pressures effectively.

What is the difference between Assistant District Attorney vs Prosecutor?

AspectAssistant District AttorneyProsecutor
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar licenseJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar license
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, courtrooms, legal teamsGovernment agencies, courts, legal offices
Industry UsageCommonly used in local government, district attorney's officesUsed broadly for legal prosecutors at various government levels

Both Assistant District Attorneys and Prosecutors require a JD and state licensure. Assistant District Attorneys typically work within district attorney's offices handling criminal cases, while Prosecutors may operate at different government levels. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Assistant District Attorney' specifically refers to those working under the District Attorney's office.

Can you be an assistant district attorney?

An assistant district attorney is a legal professional who works for the district attorney's office, prosecuting criminal cases on behalf of the government. To become one, candidates typically need a law degree, a license to practice law, and relevant legal experience. The role often requires strong courtroom skills, knowledge of criminal law, and passing the state bar exam.

Is assistant district attorney a good job?

An assistant district attorney is a legal professional responsible for prosecuting criminal cases on behalf of the government. The role offers opportunities for courtroom experience, legal skill development, and public service, often requiring a law degree and passing the bar exam. Job satisfaction depends on individual interests in criminal law and the work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant District Attorney jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Assistant District Attorney jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant District Attorney jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant District Attorney jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Assistant District Attorney jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Assistant District Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant District Attorney job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,587 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Assistant District Attorney

State of North Carolina

Durham, NC • On-site

$56K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


State Of North Carolina rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 50 rated states


Job description

Agency
District Attorney
Division
DISTRICT ATTORNEY 16
Job Classification Title
Assistant District Attorney (NS)
Position Number
60007401
Grade
30013281
About Us
DO YOUR CAREER JUSTICE! Each and every day, North Carolina's courts help provide safety for our communities, prosperity for our economy, and protection for the rights, liberties, and freedoms that sit at the foundation of our state and federal constitutions. Consider an exciting and rewarding career with us and join the more than 7,000 elected officials and employees who make up our workforce and help us ensure that justice is administrated without favor, denial, or delay.
Description of Work
SALARY RANGE: $56,000.00 - $104,338.00
The District Attorney's Office in District 16, Durham County, seeks a qualified Assistant District Attorney to prosecute criminal cases.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences
Duties include but are not limited to the following:
  • screening incoming felony cases using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of case facts.
  • research and identify precedence in case law.
  • utilize and evaluate electronic legal research and other research tools.
  • prepare cases for trial, write and file any appropriate motions, organize work.
  • set priorities.
  • meet critical deadlines, follow up on assignments, and meet with victims and witnesses and law enforcement.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Competencies:
Knowledge of: federal, state, common, and constitutional law; judicial procedures and rules of evidence; case, statutory, and common law; NC General Statutes to prosecute criminal cases; judicial and quasi-judicial procedures; legal research methods, techniques, sources, databases, and other research tools; the principles and protocols for the evidentiary gathering of information, documents, financial records, and other data that may be used in trial court processes, protocols, and strategies; the operations of the NC court system; and ethical and professional standards of conduct.
Skill in: interpreting and applying complex criminal laws to information, evidence, and other data; listening techniques used in interviewing witnesses; using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of case facts; researching and identifying precedence in case law; utilizing and evaluating electronic legal research and online systems; negotiating plea agreements; organizing work; setting priorities; meeting critical deadlines; and following up on assignments with a minimum of direction.
Ability to: analyze facts, laws, rules, regulations, interpretations, and related written documents and apply applicable law to those facts; conduct legal research; plan, develop, and execute an effective litigation strategy to achieve desired results; prepare, organize, and conduct witness examinations; deliver opening statements, closing arguments, and evidentiary objections; express complex legal concepts and related facts in a clear and concise manner; argue clearly, logically, and persuasively; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and other participants in the criminal justice process; recognize and solve problems; produce legal interpretations in a quick and responsive manner for court officials; write reports, motions, briefs, and other legal documents; deal tactfully with sensitive situations; communicate both orally and in writing; and work independently.
Supplemental and Contact Information:
INSTRUCTIONS:
Applicants must complete an on-line application by clicking the above APPLY link. Mailed or faxed applications will not be accepted.
Before applying, please read the Online Employment Application Guide for instructions on creating your profile and applying for specific postings.
It is important your application includes all of your relevant education and work experience and that you answer all questions associated with the application to receive proper credit. Résumés are not accepted in lieu of fully completed applications.
*NOTE* Many job postings require certain documents be attached to an application. Verify your application is complete and uploaded documents are attached to your application before submitting it. Applications may not be altered after they have been submitted.
All NC Judicial Branch agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers.
The North Carolina Judicial Branch participates in E-Verify, an internet-based system that compares information from an employee's Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from the US Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration records to confirm employment eligibility.
Charmaine Leeks
NC Administrative Office of the Courts
Human Resources Division
Minimum Education and Experience
Some state job postings say you can qualify by an "equivalent combination of education and experience." If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:
Juris Doctor degree from an ABA accredited law school and an active license to practice law in North Carolina.
Attach cover letter and résumé.
EEO Statement
The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.
Recruiter:
Charmaine James Leeks
Email:
HumanResources@nccourts.org

What State Of North Carolina employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


State of North Carolina logo

About State of North Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of North Carolina is not a traditional company, but rather the governmental body serving the state. From its base in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA, this body provides a broad variety of public services, ranging from education and healthcare to taxation and conservation. Originally established when the region first became a state in 1789, the government of North Carolina has been dedicated to the service of its residents ever since. Its website, nc.gov, provides a portal through which the public can access information and services. The core mission of the body is to ensure the welfare, safety, and prosperity of North Carolina's citizens.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1789