Government Investigations & Civil Rights Defense Associate Attorney – Washington, DC-

Overview

Practice area:

- Administrative Law, Criminal Law - Defense, Government - General, Litigation - Civil Rights

2–5 Year Government Investigations & Civil Rights Defense Associate Attorney – Federal Practice | Washington, DC

Government Investigations & Civil Rights Defense Attorney role in Washington, DC supporting federal employees in high-stakes criminal, administrative, and ethics matters. Join a respected boutique team offering direct client contact, meaningful courtroom exposure, and early responsibility.

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A respected Washington, DC litigation boutique is expanding its federal defense and government practice and seeks a 2–5 year Associate Attorney with interest in investigations, regulatory defense, administrative proceedings, and civil rights litigation. This Government Defense Attorney opportunity offers hands-on responsibility from day one, working directly with partners and clients facing complex federal scrutiny.

Unlike large institutional environments, this team operates in small, highly collaborative groups where associates actively shape strategy, draft substantive filings, and appear before agencies and tribunals early in their careers. Attorneys gain immediate exposure to sensitive, mission-driven matters that directly impact careers, reputations, and constitutional rights. This opportunity is actively interviewing and rarely opens at this level.

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As an Administrative Law / Criminal Defense / Civil Rights Attorney, you will:

• Assist in defending clients in federal criminal, civil, and administrative proceedings
• Support matters involving government investigations, ethics compliance, and professional discipline
• Represent individuals in security clearance eligibility and adjudication proceedings
• Prepare legal memoranda, motions, and advocacy submissions for regulatory and oversight bodies
• Respond to agency inquiries and disclosure requests
• Participate in hearings, negotiations, and settlement discussions
• Conduct detailed legal research on federal statutes, regulations, and enforcement trends
• Collaborate closely with partners on investigative and litigation strategy
• Maintain regular, direct communication with clients regarding risk, options, and outcomes
• Contribute to case development with persuasive writing and quality-driven legal analysis

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Note: The original content lists both Required and Preferred qualifications. Converted here as separate subsections for clarity.

Required

• 2–5 years of relevant experience as a Government Litigation Attorney or Administrative Law Attorney
• Bar admission in the District of Columbia, pending admission, or eligibility to waive into the DC Bar
• Strong analytical, legal research, and writing skills
• Ability to manage fast-paced matters with evolving legal issues
• Professional discretion in handling sensitive and confidential cases
• Excellent interpersonal and client communication skills
• Ability to thrive in a small, team-based environment

Preferred

• Experience with federal investigations or regulatory enforcement
• Exposure to ethics or compliance counseling
• Security clearance or civil rights litigation background
• Interest in long-term growth within a boutique federal defense practice

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This team combines the sophistication of a top-tier law firm with the agility and mentorship of a boutique practice. Associates benefit from:

• Direct partner access and daily mentorship
• Substantive courtroom and agency advocacy opportunities
• Sustainable workload expectations
• Strong professional development and skill-building
• Attorneys are valued for judgment, initiative, and teamwork—not just billable hours—making this a strong partner-track position for lawyers seeking ownership of their work.

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• Immediate exposure to high-impact federal matters
• Early advocacy opportunities before agencies and tribunals
• Direct client interaction from the outset
• Broad mix of criminal, civil, administrative, and civil rights work
• Rare boutique setting with…