Assistant Attorney General; Civil Litigation Section

Position Title

Assistant Attorney General (Civil Litigation Section)

02/11/2026

03/15/2026

Department of Justice

$9,063 - $17,597

Employee

The Trial Division of the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking an experienced civil litigator who can lead complex civil cases for a permanent, full‑time Assistant Attorney General position in its Civil Litigation Section. The selected individual will join a team of skilled lawyers who represent the state, its agencies, officers, and employees in complex civil lawsuits in state and federal trial courts.

If you are looking for a place with great colleagues and dynamic cases where you can focus on litigation and the excellent practice of law, the Civil Litigation Section is the place for you. Attorneys with a background and interest in land‑use, condemnation, contracts, employment, tort, civil rights, or administrative law will find opportunities to grow their experience and expertise based on their interests and capabilities.

The Section strives to provide each attorney with a mix of cases that are challenging, interesting, and engaging.

DOJ’s Trial Division has developed flexible remote‑working policies that allow attorneys to optimize work‑life balance while maintaining an active and varied litigation practice. Civil Litigation Section attorneys work a hybrid schedule, with everyone working at least one day per week in the office, plus additional occasions when the requirements of the job make it necessary to be in the office or in court.

Those who wish to be in the office more often have all been cheerfully accommodated.

This position can be based out of Portland or Salem.

• At least ten years of experience litigating in state or federal court as an attorney.
• An active interest in jury trials and a willingness to take appropriate cases to trial while recognizing those best suited for a reasonable settlement.
• Experience writing and arguing motions to dismiss or motions for summary judgment in a state or federal court.
• Ability to balance frequent court appearances and an active motions practice while maintaining excellent client communication.
• Strong research and writing skills.
• A high level of professionalism and collegiality, and a desire to work with smart and thoughtful clients who are dedicated to doing the right thing for the State of Oregon.
• Willingness and availability to travel throughout the state for court appearances and trials.

• Active membership in good standing with the Oregon State Bar prior to appointment or reciprocity in progress at the time of the application.
• Experience negotiating and resolving claims brought in civil actions.
• Civil jury trial experience.
• Experience taking and defending depositions in state or federal court actions.

• Follow the “Apply” link above and complete the application online and all supplemental questions.
• Attach your resume.
• Attach your cover letter (detailing how you meet the job requirements).
• Attach your writing sample (not to exceed seven pages) suitable for assessing analytical and writing ability.

This OAJA‑represented position will be filled at either the Assistant Attorney General or Senior Assistant Attorney General level, salary range $9,063.00 – $17,597.00 per month, depending primarily on years of legal practice experience and other factors. Employees who are Public Employee Retirement System (PERS) participating members will have their base salary increased by 6.95% and pay a 6% employee contribution to PERS;

the salary range reflects base salary only.

For a partial list of our benefits, you can learn here.

Questions regarding this position should be directed to Kristen Boyd, Interim Chief Trial Counsel; or Craig Johnson, Attorney‑in‑Charge, Civil Litigation Section, at (503) 947‑4700.

Additional applicant screening will depend on the number of qualified applications received. Applicants most closely matching the requirements and needs of the position will be invited to interview.

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