Job Description
Summary The Civil Division, Tax Litigation Branch, is looking for attorneys to join its Trial Section. Our attorneys have a passion for litigation; a deep interest in public service; and the ability to work both collaboratively and independently. Well-qualified candidates may be eligible for a signing bonus of up to $25,000 , depending on qualifications, education, and other factors. All recipients of a signing bonus are required to fulfill a service obligation. Learn more about this agency This job is open to The public U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S. Clarification from the agency United States Citizens Duties Tax Litigation Branch trial attorneys serve as front-line litigators for the United States in tax disputes in federal district courts, bankruptcy courts, the Court of Federal Claims, and, on occasion, state courts. These cases arise nationwide, and significant travel is required for depositions, hearings, and trials. Attorneys are responsible for a diverse caseload, handling matters both independently and as part of a litigation team. In all cases, attorneys take primary responsibility for developing and litigating cases, including taking and defending depositions, drafting and arguing motions, working with fact and expert witnesses, and trying cases. The Branch handles most litigation outside of the Tax Court involving the Internal Revenue Service. In this role, attorneys work on cases that span all sectors of the American economy and involve litigants ranging from individuals and small businesses to the largest corporations. Representative matters include Defending the United States in tax refund actions Bringing affirmative suits to collect taxes, including cases involving complex commercial transactions and fraudulent transfers of property Defending challenges to the constitutional and statutory validity of provisions of the Internal Revenue Code and Treasury Regulations Obtaining injunctions against individuals and entities engaged in fraudulent tax shelter schemes or the preparation of fraudulent tax returns Representing the United States in bankruptcy, receivership, and probate proceedings Enforcing civil penalties, including those related to foreign financial account reporting requirements Defending Internal Revenue Service employees in Bivens actions Enforcing Internal Revenue Service administrative summonses Protecting the United States' immunity from state and local taxation Through this work, attorneys play a critical role in developing federal tax law and ensuring that all taxpayers meet their obligations under the law. Requirements Conditions of employment Must be a U.S. Citizen or National Must complete a Background Investigation to include drug testing All male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must have registered for the selective service. If selected, the applicant must sign a statement certifying his registration, or the applicant must demonstrate exempt status under the Selective Service Law. May require completion of a 2-year trial period. (Please refer to the trial period statement under Qualifications.) May be required to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with eligibility for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access depending on organizational assignment / duty location. It is the policy of the Department to achieve a drug-free workplace and persons selected for employment will be required to pass a drug test which screens for illegal drug use prior to final appointment. Financial Disclosure: If selected, you will be required to disclose financial information in accordance with DOJ and Federal ethics guidelines. Qualifications Attorneys in this position must be able to work independently to develop their cases factually and legally, and work collaboratively with the Internal Revenue Service, internal supervisors, and peers to present cases in the most effective manner. Excellent written and oral communication skills are essential. Interested applicants must possess a J.D., or equivalent, degree, be duly licensed and authorized to practice as an attorney under the laws of any State, territory of the United States, or the District of Columbia, and be an active member of the bar in good standing. To qualify at the GS-11 grade level, applicants must have up to one (1) year of legal experience. To qualify at the GS-12 grade level, applicants must have minimum (1) or more years post-J.D. legal experience To qualify at the GS-13 grade level, applicants must possess at least one and one-half (1.5) years