Assistant Commonwealth Attorney

ASSISTANT COMMONWEALTH ATTORNEY

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Now offering competitive sign‑on bonuses starting at $2,500 for qualified candidates. The Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney for Newport News is seeking dynamic, motivated attorneys to join our team as Assistant Commonwealth's Attorneys.

• Hands‑On Trial
  
  Experience:
  
  Prepare to take on real, impactful cases from day one. Our attorneys handle a high volume of cases, gaining substantial trial experience in both district and circuit courts. This is an exceptional opportunity to develop and refine your litigation skills.
• Comprehensive Training:
  We invest in our team. Through regular in‑office training, you'll build and expand your legal skills, benefiting from mentorship from seasoned attorneys and continuing education opportunities.
• Community Prosecutor Role:
  We believe in justice that serves the people. Our prosecutors engage directly with the Newport News community, collaborating with law enforcement, community organizations, and schools to address issues that matter to our youth and neighborhoods.
• Strong Professional Partnerships:
  We are proud of the strong working relationships we have with the defense bar, law enforcement, and our judiciary. We value collaboration, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to fairness and public safety.
• Healthy Work‑Life Balance:
  We value your well‑being. Our flexible telework policy supports a balanced lifestyle, allowing you to thrive both in court and in your personal life.

Salary Range: $85,000.00 to $ annually

This position is ideal for attorneys who want immediate and substantial courtroom experience while being mentored in a supportive and collaborative environment.

• Prosecute misdemeanor and felony cases in General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, and Circuit Court.
• Prepare and present cases at trial, including legal research, witness preparation, plea negotiations, and jury instructions.
• Draft legal briefs and memoranda on a wide range of criminal law issues.
• Work closely with victims, witnesses, law enforcement, and community partners with professionalism and respect.
• Manage a high‑volume caseload while maintaining accuracy, organization, and ethical standards.
• Participate in community prosecution efforts focused on prevention, accountability, and long‑term public safety.

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the Virginia State Bar and licensed to practice in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Applicants awaiting Virginia bar results are encouraged to apply.

• Experience in criminal law, prosecution, or jury trials is helpful but not required.

Salary Range: $ to $ annually

This position is designed for experienced prosecutors who are ready to take on complex cases, serve as courtroom leaders, and mentor newer attorneys.

• Prosecute misdemeanor and felony cases in all courts of the Commonwealth.
• Handle complex legal issues involving constitutional law, evidence, and advanced trial strategy.
• Serve as first chair on complex felony and homicide cases as assigned.
• Provide guidance and support to less experienced attorneys.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, victims, witnesses, and justice system partners.
• Engage in community prosecution initiatives that strengthen trust and improve outcomes beyond the courtroom.

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the Virginia State Bar and eligibility to practice in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Admission to practice before the Court of Appeals of Virginia and the Supreme Court of Virginia.
• At least four years of experience as a criminal prosecutor, or a combination of prosecutorial and general legal practice totaling comparable experience.

Type: INTERNAL & EXTERNAL

Location: COMMONWEALTH ATTORNEY

Job Family: PROFESSIONAL

Posting Start: 10/24/2025

Posting End: 04/24/2026