The Department of Justice (DOJ) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing laws, representing the United States in legal matters, and ensuring public safety. Attorneys working for the DOJ are highly skilled legal professionals who play a critical role in criminal prosecutions, civil litigation, and policy enforcement.
In 2025, DOJ attorneys’ salaries are determined by the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with adjustments for locality, grade, and years of service. This article provides a detailed breakdown of salaries, benefits, career progression, and frequently asked questions for DOJ attorneys.
Overview of Department of Justice Attorney Salary (2025)
DOJ attorney salaries vary based on several key factors:
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Grade Level (GS Pay Scale): Entry-level attorneys typically start at GS-11 or GS-12, while senior attorneys may reach GS-14 or GS-15.
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Years of Service: Salaries increase with tenure and successful promotions.
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Location/Locality Pay: Salaries are adjusted for cost-of-living differences across the United States.
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Special Assignments or Incentives: Attorneys handling high-priority or complex cases may receive additional compensation.
DOJ attorneys also enjoy comprehensive benefits, including healthcare, retirement plans, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.
Summary Table: Department of Justice Attorney Salary by Grade Level (2025)
| GS Grade | Years of Service | Base Pay (USD/Year) | Approx. Monthly Pay | Locality Pay (Est.) | Total Estimated Annual Compensation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | 0–2 yrs | $61,000 | $5,083 | $8,500 | $69,500 |
| GS-12 | 2–5 yrs | $74,000 | $6,167 | $10,500 | $84,500 |
| GS-13 | 5–10 yrs | $90,000 | $7,500 | $12,500 | $102,500 |
| GS-14 | 10–15 yrs | $110,000 | $9,167 | $15,000 | $125,000 |
| GS-15 | 15+ yrs | $132,000 | $11,000 | $18,000 | $150,000 |
Note: Figures include base pay and estimated locality adjustments. Actual pay varies by office location and assigned responsibilities.
How Department of Justice Attorney Salary Structure Works (2025)
1. General Schedule (GS) Pay System
The federal GS pay scale determines attorney salaries based on grade and step:
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GS-11: Entry-level attorneys, often recent law graduates with bar admission.
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GS-12: Attorneys with 2–5 years of federal or private legal experience.
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GS-13: Mid-career attorneys managing significant cases and supervising junior attorneys.
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GS-14: Senior attorneys handling complex litigation or high-profile cases.
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GS-15: Executive-level attorneys or those in specialized leadership roles.
2. Locality Pay Adjustments
Locality pay accounts for regional differences in the cost of living. DOJ attorneys in Washington D.C., New York, and Los Angeles receive higher compensation than those in lower-cost regions. Locality adjustments may increase base pay by 15–35%.
3. Special Assignments and Incentives
Attorneys handling sensitive or high-profile investigations, complex civil litigation, national security matters, or fraud cases may qualify for additional compensation or special performance awards.
4. Performance-Based Increases
Step increases within a GS grade are based on annual performance reviews, successful case outcomes, and professional development achievements. High-performing attorneys may advance faster in pay and grade.
5. Education and Certifications
Most DOJ attorneys hold Juris Doctor (JD) degrees and have passed a state bar exam. Additional certifications or advanced degrees in tax law, international law, cybersecurity law, or trial advocacy can enhance career advancement and salary potential.
Detailed Department of Justice Attorney Salary by Grade Level (2025)
GS-11 Attorney
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Salary Range: $61,000–$69,500 annually
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Roles: Entry-level attorneys handle legal research, draft briefs, assist senior attorneys, and manage low-risk cases
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Notes: Focus on learning DOJ protocols, litigation software, and courtroom procedures
GS-12 Attorney
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Salary Range: $74,000–$84,500 annually
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Roles: Attorneys conduct independent legal analysis, manage mid-level cases, and assist in complex litigation
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Notes: Requires solid experience in legal research, writing, and case management
GS-13 Attorney
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Salary Range: $90,000–$102,500 annually
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Roles: Mid-career attorneys supervise junior staff, lead significant cases, and present arguments in federal court
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Notes: Requires multi-year experience and demonstrated expertise in litigation or policy enforcement
GS-14 Attorney
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Salary Range: $110,000–$125,000 annually
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Roles: Senior attorneys oversee major divisions, handle high-profile cases, and advise agency leadership
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Notes: May include management responsibilities and interagency coordination
GS-15 Attorney
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Salary Range: $132,000–$150,000 annually
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Roles: Executive-level attorneys responsible for policy guidance, strategic planning, and senior litigation oversight
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Notes: Positions often require specialized expertise and extensive federal legal experience
Benefits and Allowances for Department of Justice Attorneys (2025)
Health and Insurance Benefits
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Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans: Comprehensive coverage for employees and dependents
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Life and Disability Insurance: Federal insurance plans to protect income and family
Retirement and Savings
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Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS): Pension plan plus Social Security
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Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): Tax-deferred investment options with government matching contributions
Leave and Time Off
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Annual Leave: 13–26 days per year based on years of service
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Sick Leave: 13 days per year
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Federal Holidays: 11 paid holidays annually
Professional Development
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Training Programs: DOJ provides access to trial advocacy, leadership courses, and specialized legal training
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Continuing Legal Education (CLE): Opportunities for certification and skill advancement
Key Allowances
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Locality Pay Adjustments: Additional pay based on the cost of living
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Performance Awards: Monetary incentives for exceptional work
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Travel and Deployment Per Diem: For attorneys working in field offices or specialized investigations
Factors Influencing DOJ Attorney Salaries
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Grade Level and Step: Primary determinant of base salary
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Years of Service: Influences step increases and longevity pay
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Location: Locality pay adjustments impact total compensation
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Specialized Skills: Expertise in areas such as cybersecurity, tax law, or national security
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Performance Evaluations: Merit-based increases accelerate career progression
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Education Level: Advanced degrees and certifications can affect initial hiring grade
Career Progression for Department of Justice Attorneys
Entry-Level Attorneys (GS-11/GS-12)
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Handle legal research, prepare briefs, and support litigation
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Work under supervision to learn DOJ policies and procedures
Mid-Level Attorneys (GS-13)
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Manage cases independently, supervise junior attorneys
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Represent DOJ in federal court and administrative hearings
Senior Attorneys (GS-14)
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Lead divisions, manage high-profile cases
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Advise agency leadership and coordinate with other federal agencies
Executive-Level Attorneys (GS-15)
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Oversee policy implementation, strategic planning, and senior litigation
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May serve as chiefs of divisions or specialized legal departments
Promotions depend on performance, experience, leadership skills, and specialized knowledge. Attorneys with additional certifications or foreign language skills often advance faster.
FAQs — Department of Justice Attorney Salary and Benefits (2025)
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What is the starting salary for a DOJ attorney?
$61,000–$69,500 annually for GS-11 entry-level positions. -
Do attorneys receive locality pay?
Yes, salaries are adjusted for the cost of living in high-expense areas. -
Are there bonuses or incentives?
Yes, performance awards and special assignment incentives may apply. -
What education is required?
Juris Doctor (JD) degree and bar admission are mandatory. -
Do DOJ attorneys receive health benefits?
Yes, including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance. -
Is retirement included?
Yes, DOJ attorneys participate in FERS and TSP with government matching contributions. -
Do years of service affect pay?
Yes, step increases and longevity pay are applied. -
Can attorneys work in different states?
Yes, DOJ has field offices nationwide and allows transfers. -
Are there paid leave and holidays?
Yes, including annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays. -
What skills help attorneys advance faster?
Specialized expertise, trial experience, leadership, and certifications accelerate career progression.
Conclusion
In 2025, DOJ attorneys enjoy highly competitive salaries, substantial benefits, and clear career advancement pathways. Compensation is influenced by GS grade, years of service, locality adjustments, performance, and specialized skills. DOJ provides opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and long-term financial security, making it a rewarding career for legal professionals dedicated to serving the United States.
With entry-level salaries starting around $61,000 and senior executive compensation exceeding $150,000, the DOJ offers a structured, stable, and prestigious legal career.