What are the responsibilities and job description for the Deputy Attorney General I-V Defensive Litigation Unit position at State of Delaware - Legal/Office of Attorney General?
Introduction
Delaware's Attorney General, the State's chief law enforcement officer, has a broad responsibility to combat crime, uphold civil rights, safeguard families, provide legal services to entirety of state government, and fight fraud.� In the Civil Division, approximately 80 attorneys provide legal support to the executive branch agencies in the form of general counsel advice, administrative hearing prosecutions, board representation, and all stages of civil litigation.�� Attorneys in the Civil Division enjoy a 37.5-hour work week with true work/life balance including: a hybrid work environment, no billable hours, generous paid time off, affordable benefits plans, free trainings and CLE, 12 weeks paid parental leave, exclusive public service student loan forgiveness programs, pension eligibility, and a supportive collaborative work environment.
Summary Statement
The Delaware Department of Justice is seeking to fill two vacancies for Deputy Attorneys General (DAGs) in the Civil Division’s Defensive Litigation Unit (DLU) in New Castle County. In these roles, the DAGs will defend the State, its agencies, officials, and employees in a broad range of civil litigation matters—including employment and civil rights actions. The Unit primarily focuses on issues related to civil rights/constitutional law, employment law, and litigation brought by inmates under 42 U.S.C. �1983, with cases handled in both state and federal courts.
Career Ladder
The Deputy Attorney General (DAG) career steps and salaries are based on experience, skills and the number of years barred. Salary:� *Pay Grade A12 DAG I� \tAnnual salary $83,252 Pay Grade A14 DAG II� \tSalary Range $87,822/min� $92,106/max� Pay Grade A16 DAG III� \tSalary Range $96,997/min� $99,129/max Pay Grade A18 DAG IV� \tSalary Range $106,626/min� $108,737/max� Pay Grade A20 DAG V� \tSalary Range $118,238/min� $122,920/max� * The salary of $83,252 for the Deputy Attorney General I position applies to candidates who are admitted to the Delaware Bar
Essential Functions
These DAGs will represent the State, its agencies, officials, and employees in a wide range of civil litigation proceedings in both federal and state courts—including cases involving civil rights, employment, social services, law enforcement, corrections, and other matters arising from State operations and legislation. Cases frequently involve issues of administrative law, federal and state constitutional law, and statutory interpretation. Additionally, the DAGs may be required to advise State agencies, officials, and employees on civil litigation matters and lawsuit settlements. They will work closely with and be supported by legal assistants (paralegals) and legal administrative specialists, and they will handle additional assignments as directed by the State Solicitor, Deputy State Solicitor, Unit Head, or Assistant Unit Head.
Job Requirements
The ideal candidate will have experience in civil litigation, preferably including depositions, oral argument, and courtroom experience. This position seeks a bright, hardworking, and responsive attorney with good judgment and attention to detail. The selected candidate should also be comfortable handling a large caseload independently without extensive supervision.�� Membership in Delaware Bar is required; this DAG must be admitted to the District of Delaware, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, or eligible for admission to those courts.� �Travel within the State may be necessary.�
Additional Posting Information
This position is exempt from the State of Delaware Merit System. Travel within the State may be necessary. This posting may close before 6/19/2025 upon filling the vacant position(s).�
Conditions of Hire
Criminal background check: A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire.� Direct deposit of paychecks is required as a condition of hire. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Benefits
Department of Justice Benefits Include: May be eligible Loan forgiveness (State and Federal). State of Delaware healthcare plan. State of Delaware pension plan. Over 4 weeks of vacation per year. 3 weeks of paid sick leave per year. 12 weeks of paid parental leave. To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/ �
Accommodations
Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.� To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance. The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
Salary : $83,252 - $122,920