Full-Time Employment

Each year more than 2,000 law school graduates and admitted attorneys apply for positions as Assistant District Attorneys. There are typically 40-50 openings each year for legal staff positions. Most of the staff is hired directly out of law school, while some of the staff join the office as laterals or after clerking.

ADAs start in the Trial Division, Appeals Bureau, or in the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor. As they gain experience, they have the opportunity to handle more serious and complex cases. They are also afforded the opportunity to transfer to the office's Investigation Division, which is comprised of experienced attorneys who prosecute fraud, corruption, white-collar crimes, and rackets cases.

Given the diverse nature of our community, the ability to work with people of different backgrounds is critical. In addition, the office seeks to have a legal staff that reflects the diversity of the community that we serve. To that end, we actively recruit minority applicants. The office is firmly committed to a policy against discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or sexual orientation.

We offer a generous benefits package. Attorneys receive five weeks of paid vacation and twelve sick days. After two years of service, all attorneys are eligible for up to six months of childcare leave which, depending on the circumstances, some or all of which will be with full pay. Loan forgiveness programs are also available for Assistant District Attorneys.

Public Officers Law Section 3(1) requires that all persons holding civil office be citizens of the United States. Accordingly, United States citizenship is required of all Assistant District Attorneys upon commencement of their employment, as is New York State residency. A three year commitment to serve in the office is also required.