Introduction
Delaware's Attorney General, the State's chief law enforcement officer, has a broad responsibility to combat crime, uphold civil rights, safeguard families, fight fraud, and protect consumers in the First State.
In meeting this mission, Attorney General Kathy Jennings is supported by teams of talented lawyers and staff in the Criminal, Civil, Family, Fraud and Consumer Protection, and Civil Rights and Public Trust Divisions. Each of the more than 500 staff who work in the Office of the Attorney General are dedicated to serving all Delawareans with integrity and passion.
Deputy Attorneys General, with critical support from criminal special investigators, victim service specialists, paraprofessionals, and administrative staff, prosecute criminal cases, enforce consumer laws, provide counsel to state agencies, ensure the public's access to open government, protect the abused, and much more.
Summary Statement
The Criminal Division seeks two Deputy Attorneys General to join the Felony Trial Unit in New Castle County. Prosecutors in this unit prepare, present, and prosecute cases ranging from theft to murder in Delaware Superior Court. With a strong commitment to justice, they make a direct impact by protecting and restoring crime victims while contributing to offender rehabilitation. Additionally, prosecutors work closely with law enforcement, providing legal guidance and investigative support.
Candidates selected for these positions will join a fast-paced, dynamic team environment. Members of the Felony Trial Unit appear in court weekly and try cases regularly, gaining significant courtroom experience and trial advocacy skills. Those chosen for these roles will develop a deep understanding of admissible evidence, command applicable statutes, and handle high-profile and complex jury trials, often becoming some of Delaware’s finest trial attorneys.
Prosecutors will receive strong support from the experienced New Castle County leadership team, participate in extensive in-house training, and have access to national, regional, and local conferences.
The Deputy Attorneys General filling these positions will gain:
• Expertise in evidentiary and court rules, as well as applicable statutes
• Advanced negotiation and trial advocacy skills
• Proficiency in evaluating cases to ensure justice for victims, society, and defendants
• Effective time management skills to balance competent representation with personal well-being
These roles also provide invaluable experience working closely with law enforcement on investigations ranging from misdemeanors to homicides. Successful candidates will gain firsthand insight into the criminal justice system, developing skills and perspectives that set them apart as leaders in the field.
Career Ladder
The Deputy Attorney General (DAG) career steps and salaries are based on experience, skills and the number of years barred.
*Pay Grade A12 DAG I Annual salary $83,252
Pay Grade A14 DAG II Salary Range $87,822/min $92,106/max
Pay Grade A16 DAG III Salary Range $96,997/min $99,129/max
Pay Grade A18 DAG IV Salary Range $106,626/min $108,737/max
Pay Grade A20 DAG V Salary Range $118,238/min $122,920/max
* The salary of $83,252 for the Deputy Attorney General I position applies to candidates who are admitted to the Delaware Bar
Essential Functions
Duties include determining which cases should be prosecuted, resolved through plea agreements, or taken to trial. Successful candidates will craft specific plea offers on a case-by-case basis and try cases that are not otherwise resolved. The selected applicants will handle a diverse range of criminal cases, meet with members of the public, and engage in plea negotiations with defense counsel.
Job Requirements
Strengths required include the ability to evaluate cases, determine appropriate resolutions, and anticipate legal issues. Candidates must possess knowledge of current investigative methods and demonstrate strong research skills. Effective communication of legal issues through concise and thorough written and oral presentations is essential.
The selected candidates must either have or develop strong working relationships with fellow Deputy Attorneys General, investigators, support staff, court personnel, and external agencies. Additionally, they must exhibit the ability and commitment to learn and apply relevant laws and Court rules. Membership in the Delaware Bar is required.
Additional Posting Information
- Please be sure to upload a recent copy of your resume, as you complete the application process for this posting.
- This position is exempt from the State of Delaware Merit System.
- This posting may close before 1/23/2025 upon filling the vacant position(s).
Conditions of Hire
- Criminal background check: A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire.
- Direct deposit of paychecks is required as a condition of hire.
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Benefits
Department of Justice Benefits Include:
- May be eligible Loan forgiveness (State and Federal).
- State of Delaware healthcare plan.
- State of Delaware pension plan.
- Over 4 weeks of vacation per year.
- 3 weeks of paid sick leave per year.
- 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
- Possible Overtime and Stipend Opportunities.
To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/
Accommodations
Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.
The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.