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Assistant State Attorney Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Assistant City Attorney

Richmond, VA · On-site

$92K - $153K/yr

T uition Assistance Program Description The City of Richmond seeks an Assistant City Attorney in ... The successful candidate must be a member of the Virginia State Bar. This position is responsible ...

Assistant City Attorney

Richmond, VA · On-site

$92K - $153K/yr

... Assistant City Attorney in the civil litigation division primarily to assist the City's police ... The successful candidate must be a member of the Virginia State Bar. This position is responsible ...

Showing results 41-60

Assistant State Attorney information

See Virginia salary details

$52.5K

$85.7K

$137.3K

How much do assistant state attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant state attorney in Virginia is $85,703.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,400.00 and $94,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant State Attorney vs Prosecutor?

AspectAssistant State AttorneyProsecutor
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar admissionJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar admission
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, courtroomsGovernment agencies, courts
Employer & IndustryState or local government, legal systemGovernment agencies, legal system
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Assistant State Attorneys and Prosecutors are legal professionals working within the criminal justice system, often in government settings. An Assistant State Attorney typically refers to a lawyer working under a State Attorney, handling criminal cases, and representing the government in court. A Prosecutor is a broader term that can include Assistant State Attorneys and other legal officials responsible for prosecuting criminal cases. The roles overlap significantly, with the main difference being that 'Prosecutor' is a general term, while 'Assistant State Attorney' specifies a particular position within the state's legal system.

What is an assistant state attorney?

Assistant State Attorneys are licensed lawyers who work for the government, typically under the direction of a State Attorney, to prosecute criminal cases on behalf of the state. They are responsible for reviewing evidence, filing charges, presenting cases in court, and working with law enforcement to ensure justice is served. Their duties may also include negotiating plea deals and advising police on legal matters. Assistant State Attorneys play a crucial role in upholding the law and protecting public safety within their jurisdiction.

What challenges do assistant state attorneys face when managing a heavy caseload?

Assistant State Attorneys often handle a large number of cases simultaneously, which requires exceptional time management and organizational skills. Balancing court appearances, legal research, witness preparation, and negotiations can create pressure, especially when deadlines overlap. Working closely with law enforcement, victims, and defense counsel also demands clear communication and adaptability. Successful attorneys rely on teamwork, available resources, and strategic prioritization to ensure each case receives the necessary attention.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an assistant state attorney?

To excel as an Assistant State Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the state bar, and a solid understanding of criminal law and courtroom procedures. Familiarity with case management software, legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and electronic filing systems is typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and negotiation skills help you effectively advocate in court and collaborate with law enforcement. These competencies ensure fair and efficient prosecution, uphold justice, and maintain public trust in the legal system.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Assistant State Attorney jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Assistant State Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant State Attorney job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,703 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney II

City of Hampton

Hampton, VA

$87K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


City Of Hampton (Virginia) rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

572nd of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Function Are you passionate about public service and committed to upholding the law with fairness and integrity. The City of Hampton is seeking a skilled and dedicated Assistant Commonwealth Attorney II to join our dynamic legal team. In this role, you'll represent the Commonwealth in General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, and Circuit Court.

The class works under administrative supervision developing and implementing programs within organizational policies and reporting major activities to executive-level administrators through conferences and reports. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, value collaboration, and are ready to take your legal career to the next level, we encourage you to apply and be part of a mission-driven team where your work truly matters. Minimum Requirements Requires graduation from an accredited law school with an LLB or JD degree.

Requires two years professional legal experience; experience in criminal prosecution is preferred or closely related experience. Must be an active member in good standing in the Virginia State Bar and admitted to practice. Must be Licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

OR Must be eligible for admission to the Virginia State Bar. Candidates selecting this option must clearly indicate the basis for their eligibility and provide an anticipated timeline for obtaining admission. Must successfully pass a background check related to this position prior to any offer of employment or promotion.

Must possess a valid driver's license and must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record based on the City of Hampton's criteria. Additional Requirements Requires effective communication with internal and external customers. Requires continuing legal education in subjects affecting the work assigned to the incumbent.

May require working non-standard hours including evenings, holidays, and weekends. May require some local travel. The incumbent may be considered "essential personnel" during city emergency situations, or at the direction of the City Manager or designee which may include long hours and unusual schedules.

Click here for a complete job description. Examples of Work Utilizes knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures of criminal law to thoroughly and accurately prepare cases for trial. Prepares, researches, and prosecutes difficult and complex criminal cases involving misdemeanors and selected felonies for trial in all courts.

Contacts victims, witnesses, police officers and other investigators to review cases and incidents in which they were involved. Exercises creativity and skillful negotiating tactics in resolving cases. Keeps supervisor apprised of status of assigned cases.

Argues pre-trial and post-trial motions. Prepares responses to discovery. Advocates for victims.

Documents in writing all actions and provides sufficient justification to support disposition recommendations. Advises City and State law enforcement officials regarding investigation of law violations; consults with City and State officials on a wide variety of problems having legal implications; may compile and maintain statistics for the lower courts. Utilizes appropriate resources, meets deadlines, prepares and reviews files in an adequate and timely manner.

Recognizes issues relating to specific cases, recognizes strengths and weaknesses of cases, and expresses complex legal and non-legal issues effectively both orally and in writing. Adheres to the Rules of Professional Responsibility for Attorneys. Responds to inquiries in a timely manner exercising good customer service skills.

May assist in training new attorneys; assists other attorneys as needed in the preparation cases; recognizes and responds to the concerns of support staff. Demonstrates punctuality and regular attendance. Performs other duties as assigned.

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