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Federal Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Department of Justice

Trial Attorney

Chicago, IL

$90.93K/yr

Please note that in certain jurisdictions, federal attorneys must maintain active membership in that jurisdiction's state bar. Preferred Qualifications: In addition to the required qualifications ...

Morgan & Morgan, P.A.

Litigation Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

From attorneys in all 50 states, to client support staff, creative marketing to operations teams ... E-Verify This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your ...

Franciscan Alliance

Staff Attorney

Crown Point, IN · On-site

These are just a few tasks that our Staff Attorney handles at Franciscan Health. WHO WE ARE ... Franciscan Alliance reserves a Right of Conscience objection in the event local, state or Federal ...

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Federal Attorney information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$47.4K

$111.5K

$177.8K

How much do federal attorney jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal attorney in Chicago, IL is $111,505.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $134,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a solid grasp of federal laws, legal research, and litigation practices. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and proficiency with case management systems are commonly required. Exceptional analytical thinking, written and verbal communication, and ethical judgment help set outstanding attorneys apart. These skills and qualifications are critical for effectively representing the government, interpreting complex statutes, and ensuring justice within the federal legal system.

What are some common challenges faced by federal attorneys when handling complex cases?

Federal attorneys often manage cases that involve intricate statutes, regulatory frameworks, and high volumes of evidence. One common challenge is coordinating with multiple agencies and stakeholders, which requires strong organizational and communication skills. Additionally, balancing a heavy caseload while keeping up with evolving federal laws can be demanding. Working under tight deadlines and maintaining the highest ethical standards are also integral to success in this role.

What are federal attorneys?

Federal attorneys are lawyers who represent the United States government in legal matters at the federal level. They may work for various federal agencies, including the Department of Justice, and handle cases involving federal laws and regulations. Their duties can include prosecuting federal crimes, defending the government in civil lawsuits, and providing legal advice to federal agencies. Federal attorneys play a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the government's actions comply with legal standards.

What is the difference between Federal Attorney vs Public Defender?

AspectFederal AttorneyPublic Defender
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar admission, often federal legal certificationsLaw degree, bar admission, specialized in criminal defense
Work EnvironmentFederal courts, government agencies, legal officesPublic defense offices, courts, legal aid organizations
Employer & IndustryFederal government, U.S. Department of Justice, federal agenciesGovernment-funded public defender offices, non-profit legal organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Federal Attorneys and Public Defenders both work within the legal system but serve different roles. Federal Attorneys represent the government in federal cases, focusing on prosecution or legal advice for federal agencies. Public Defenders defend individuals accused of crimes who cannot afford private attorneys. While both require law degrees and bar admission, their work environments and employer types differ significantly, with Federal Attorneys working primarily for government agencies and Public Defenders serving in public defense roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Federal Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Federal Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL? For Federal Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Federal Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Federal Attorney jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Federal Attorney job openings:
Federal Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Attorney job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $111,505 per year, or $53.6 per hour.
Trial Attorney

Trial Attorney

Department of Justice

Chicago, IL

$90.93K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

This is a public notice flyer. Applications will not be accepted through USA Jobs. If you are interested in applying, please see the official announcement on the DOJs Legal Careers page by following the links below:
  • U.S. Trustee Program | Attorneys | United States Department of Justice
  • https://www.justice.gov/ust/careers/attorneys
Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

Applicants must demonstrate strong academic and professional credentials; excellent oral and written communication skills; superior legal research, analytical, and reasoning abilities; sound judgment; and the ability to work independently in a demanding legal environment. Applicants must hold a J.D. from an accredited law school and possess the minimum post-law degree experience listed below, or relevant experience involving client advocacy and the interpretation or application of the United States Bankruptcy Code, the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, and related laws, rules, and regulations.

Meeting the minimum post-law degree legal experience requirements does not guarantee selection at that grade level.

  • GS-13: Minimum 1.5 years of post J.D. legal experience.
  • GS-14: Minimum 2.5 years of post J.D. legal experience.
  • GS-15: Minimum 4 years of post J.D. legal experience.

Applicants must be active members in good standing of a state bar. Please note that in certain jurisdictions, federal attorneys must maintain active membership in that jurisdiction's state bar.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, the ideal candidate will demonstrate:

  • A strong record of analyzing complex legal issues; interpreting statutes, rules, and regulations; developing litigation strategies; and exhibiting superior trial practice skills.
  • Experience litigating complex matters, including taking depositions, examining witnesses under oath, and conducting formal written discovery.
  • Exceptional organizational abilities and the capacity to manage a high volume of cases involving diverse issues.
  • The ability to clearly and accurately articulate critical issues across a broad range of matters and projects.
  • Skil in setting, managing, and balancing multiple, evolving, and challenging priorities.
  • Demonstrated initiative, creativity, and sound professional judgment.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Proficiency with information technology, including the use of databases and IT systems to manage and track work.
  • Experience working with or within federal agencies.
  • Experience in bankruptcy practice, particularly complex chapter 11 proceedings.
  • A commitment to the highest ethical and professional standards.
Education:Applicants must possess an LL.B. or a J.D. degree. (Provide the month and year in which you obtained your degree and the name of the College or University from which it was conferred/awarded.)Employment Type: OTHER

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