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Staff Attorney Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Department of Justice

Attorney Advisor

Washington, DC · On-site

$121K/yr

Oversight-Attorney-Announcement-May-2026.pdf Qualifications:Must be able to meet JMD and NSD suitability criteria for this position. Must be able to obtain and maintain a TOP SECRET/SCI security ...

Department of Justice

Attorney Advisor

Washington, DC

$121K/yr

Legal Careers | Attorney Advisor, GS-0905-13-15 | United States Department of Justice * Qualifications:Qualifications Must be able to meet JMD and NSD suitability criteria for this position. Must be ...

Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Attorney

Rockville, MD · On-site +1

$121K - $187K/yr

GG 13: includes experience that is defined as attorney or judicial work experience in a federal or ... staff on all aspects of: * Licensing and regulation for materials, fuel cycle, spent fuel storage ...

Cair-foundation Inc

Trial Attorney

Washington, DC

Trial Attorney Department: Civil Rights FLSA Status: Exempt Job Reports: Directly to the National ... Training and coaching of CAIR staff as requested. * Attend continuing legal education seminars and ...

Department of Justice

PSOB Attorney Advisor

Washington, DC · On-site

$169K/yr

To qualify for the position of PSOB Attorney Advisor, at GS-0905-15, you must meet the qualification requirements listed below. * Possess a J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited law school. * Be an ...

Defender of Wildlife

Senior Attorney

Washington, DC · On-site

$160K - $180K/yr

Advise Defenders staff on legal questions and legislative matters. * Supervise and mentor staff attorneys, legal fellows, and law clerks in Defenders' Conservation Law department. * Work across ...

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All JobsStaff Attorney JobsStaff Attorney Jobs in Reston, VA

Staff Attorney information

See Reston, VA salary details

$52.5K

$95.1K

$157.6K

How much do staff attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for staff attorney in Reston, VA is $95,136.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,300.00 and $110,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Staff Attorney vs Associate Attorney?

AspectStaff AttorneyAssociate Attorney
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admissionJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, legal departments, nonprofitsLaw firms, corporate legal teams, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageLegal organizations, nonprofits, governmentPrivate law firms, corporate legal departments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, career paths, responsibilitiesEntry-level to mid-level legal roles, career progression

Both Staff Attorneys and Associate Attorneys typically hold a JD and are bar-certified. Staff Attorneys often work in legal departments or nonprofits, focusing on specific legal tasks without client management, while Associate Attorneys usually work in law firms or corporate settings, handling client cases and gaining experience. The roles are similar but differ mainly in work environment and responsibilities, with Staff Attorneys often having more specialized or in-house roles.

What is a staff attorney?

A staff attorney works for a law firm or another organization. Staff attorneys are associates with law degrees who have passed the Bar Exam in their states. They research, analyze, and write about complex legal issues. Duties and responsibilities of all staff attorney jobs include legal research and support to the partners in a law firm. Staff attorneys may also draft portions of legal opinions based on their research as well as verify cited sources, and review documents at the request of a partner. Staff attorney is a good position for attorneys who wish to continue in the legal profession.

What is a staff attorney?

A staff attorney is a licensed lawyer employed by an organization, law firm, nonprofit, or government agency to provide legal advice, conduct research, draft documents, and represent clients or the organization in legal matters. Unlike partners or associates who may have client development or managerial responsibilities, staff attorneys typically focus on substantive legal work and supporting ongoing cases. Their duties often include reviewing and preparing legal documents, assisting with litigation, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Staff attorneys play a vital role in supporting legal teams and ensuring that legal services are delivered efficiently and effectively.

Do you need to pass the bar to be a staff attorney?

Yes, a staff attorney typically must pass the bar exam in the jurisdiction where they practice, as it is a requirement to provide legal services and represent clients. Licensing ensures they are qualified to interpret and apply the law professionally. Some positions may also require ongoing legal education or certification renewal.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a staff attorney?

To thrive as a Staff Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, strong legal research, and writing abilities. Familiarity with legal research platforms like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and case management systems, is typically required. Outstanding analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in supporting clients and collaborating with colleagues. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality legal counsel, ensuring compliance, and effectively managing caseloads in a legal environment.

What are some common challenges staff attorneys face when managing multiple cases simultaneously?

Staff Attorneys often juggle a high volume of cases, each with distinct deadlines and documentation requirements. Balancing priorities while maintaining attention to detail can be challenging, especially when urgent matters arise unexpectedly. Effective time management and strong organizational skills are essential for meeting court deadlines and collaborating with colleagues, such as paralegals and senior attorneys. Regular communication with team members and leveraging case management software can help alleviate these challenges and ensure smooth workflow.

How much do staff attorneys make in the US?

Staff attorneys in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and sector. Salaries can vary widely based on whether they work in government, private firms, or nonprofit organizations, and often include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
More about Staff Attorney jobs

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For Staff Attorney jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Staff Attorney jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Staff Attorney jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Staff Attorney jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Staff Attorney job openings:

Staff Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Staff Attorney job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,136 per year, or $45.7 per hour.

International Trade & Regulatory Compliance Staff Attorney (Customs & Import Compliance)

Direct Counsel

Washington, DC

$135K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Direct Counsel is seeking an International Trade & Regulatory Compliance Staff Attorney to join a highly regarded International Trade practice in Washington, DC. This is an outstanding opportunity for an attorney interested in customs law, import compliance, and international trade regulations while working alongside experienced practitioners on sophisticated cross-border compliance matters.

The ideal candidate will have experience advising on customs and import compliance issues or a strong background in import/export regulations through government, corporate, law firm, or customs brokerage experience.

Location
  • Washington, DC
Responsibilities
  • Advise clients on U.S. customs and import compliance matters.
  • Assist with regulatory compliance issues involving imports and international trade.
  • Support clients with customs-related filings, audits, and compliance reviews.
  • Research and analyze U.S. customs laws, regulations, and agency guidance.
  • Prepare legal memoranda, correspondence, and client advisories.
  • Collaborate with partners and counsel on complex international trade matters.
  • Monitor developments in customs and trade regulations affecting client operations.
Qualifications
  • J.D. from an accredited law school.
  • Active membership in the District of Columbia Bar.
  • Strong academic credentials.
  • Excellent legal research, analytical, and writing skills.
  • Interest in international trade, customs law, and regulatory compliance.
Preferred Qualifications

Experience in one or more of the following:

  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  • Corporate import/export compliance
  • Law firm international trade or customs practice
  • Customs brokerage or trade compliance
  • Import/export regulatory compliance
  • Foreign language proficiency is a plus.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary: $135,000–$170,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Life and disability insurance.
  • Flexible spending accounts.
  • 401(k) and profit-sharing plan.
  • Generous paid time off.
  • Wellness program.
  • Mentorship, professional development, and long-term career growth.
Why This Opportunity

This is an excellent opportunity to build a specialized international trade practice while working on sophisticated customs and import compliance matters for a diverse client base. Attorneys receive direct mentorship, meaningful responsibility, and the opportunity to develop deep expertise in a collaborative environment with one of the country's premier international trade practices.

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier legal employers and fostering inclusive hiring practices.