V30 Litigator Aiming for USAO: Apply Now or Wait? Forum

[Anonymous User]

Hi everyone,

I’m a 4th-year litigation attorney at a V30 firm, with experience primarily in securities, white-collar investigations, and toxic tort matters. My long-term goal has always been to join a USAO and develop real trial experience, ideally on the criminal side.

I’m hoping to get some perspective on two questions:

1) When applying, should I focus only on civil AUSA positions given my background, or is it still worthwhile to apply for criminal positions even though I don’t have direct criminal experience?

2) Based on my current experience level, does it make sense to start applying now, or would it be better to wait a few more years?

I’d really appreciate hearing from people who have gone through the process or have insight into what USAOs typically look for at this stage. Any advice would be incredibly helpful.

Thanks in advance!

[Anonymous User]

There are a lot of openings now. If you want criminal, apply for criminal. Be warned that the morale at USAOs is suffering due in no small part to the staffing shortages.

You can attempt to switch from civil when an opening becomes available, but I don’t see it happen that much in my office.

[Anonymous User]

The USAOs in the NYC area are still as competitive as ever these days and you will need a clerkship to get hired.

[Anonymous User]

The USAOs in the NYC area are still as competitive as ever these days and you will need a clerkship to get hired.