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Government Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Government Contracts Attorney

Arlington, TX

About the Role We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Government Contracts Attorney to join our legal team on-site in Arlington, Texas. The ideal candidate brings five to ten years of hands-on ...

E-Space

Government Contracts Attorney

Arlington, TX

About the Role We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Government Contracts Attorney to join our legal team on-site in Arlington, Texas. The ideal candidate brings five to ten years of hands-on ...

E-Space

Government Contracts Attorney

Arlington, TX · On-site

About the Role We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Government Contracts Attorney to join our legal team on-site in Arlington, Texas. The ideal candidate brings five to ten years of hands-on ...

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Government Attorney information

See salary details

$40.5K

$98.3K

$192K

How much do government attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for government attorney in the United States is $98,330.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by government attorneys in balancing public interest with legal requirements?

Government attorneys often face the challenge of serving the public interest while ensuring strict compliance with laws and regulations. They must carefully navigate complex legal and ethical considerations, especially when legal requirements may appear to conflict with public expectations or policy goals. Additionally, government attorneys frequently handle heavy caseloads and tight deadlines, requiring strong organizational and time management skills. Collaboration with various government agencies and stakeholders is also common, making effective communication and negotiation essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Government Attorney vs Public Defender?

AspectGovernment AttorneyPublic Defender
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar licenseJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar license
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, courts, legal departmentsPublic defender offices, courts
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, legal departmentsPublic defender offices, government-funded
Common Search & ComparisonLegal roles in governmentCriminal defense for indigent clients

While both Government Attorneys and Public Defenders work within government legal systems and require similar credentials, their roles differ. Government Attorneys typically serve in various government agencies, handling a broad range of legal matters. Public Defenders focus specifically on defending indigent clients in criminal cases. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations within government legal services.

What does a government attorney do?

A government attorney is a lawyer who works for a government agency at the federal, state, or local level. Their responsibilities include providing legal advice to government officials, representing the government in legal proceedings, drafting and reviewing legislation, and ensuring government actions comply with the law. Government attorneys can specialize in various areas such as criminal prosecution, civil litigation, regulatory law, or policy development. They play a vital role in upholding the rule of law and protecting the public interest.

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

To thrive as a Government Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a strong understanding of administrative, constitutional, and statutory law. Familiarity with legal research platforms like Westlaw or LexisNexis and experience with case management systems are typically required. Excellent analytical thinking, written and verbal communication, and sound ethical judgment set outstanding candidates apart. These skills and qualifications ensure effective legal representation, compliance with public policy, and integrity in government legal affairs.
More about Government Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for Government Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Government Attorney job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Government Attorney jobs? The most popular types of Government Attorney jobs are:
What states have the most Government Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Government Attorney jobs include:
Government Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Attorney job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,330 per year, or $47.3 per hour.
Associate Attorney - Government Litigation

Associate Attorney - Government Litigation

Kinetic Staffing

Jackson, MS • On-site

$115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

We have been retained by a Mississippi-based specialty litigation firm to find an experienced Associate Attorney to focus their practice in Government Litigation representing public entities in complex matters.


This position requires an Attorney with the desire to help proactively manage a caseload of matters including annexation, zoning, eminent domain process, civil service, contracts, construction, and employment. Developing relationships and a knowledge base that will aid municipalities, counties, and various state agencies in navigating legal processes will be the main responsibility for the right candidate.


The ideal associate will have a desire to be in the courtroom and handle complex litigation matters.  A background that has provided deep experience in utilizing a teamwork approach to caseload management will be ideal.


Responsibilities:

  • Proactive case management from start to finish in both state and federal courts.
  • Proven ability to manage time and cases using practice management software.
  • Drafting of pleadings, written discovery, motions, and research.
  • Frequent client communications and reporting.
  • Comprehensive legal analysis, case evaluations, and strategy recommendations.
  • Expert witness coordination and collaboration.
  • Deposition, court hearing, and mediation attendance.
  • Trial preparation and attendance.


Requirements:

  • J.D. degree from an accredited law school.
  • Licensed to practice in Mississippi.
  • 2-6 years civil litigation, general liability, or government services experience in both state and federal courts.
  • Demonstrated ability and desire to manage a large caseload proactively from start to finish.
  • Strong work ethic, ability to self-manage and work in a team environment.
  • Strong legal writing, research, and analytical capabilities.
  • Strong organization and problem-solving skills.
  • Travel is mostly limited to in-state on an as needed basis.
  • Desire to deliver exceptional client service and contribute to continued client development.

Compensation:

  • $115,000, commensurate with experience.
  • Health insurance, 401K, vacation.
  • Bar dues and CLE reimbursement.