Job Vacancy Notice
Assistant District Attorney: Criminal Appellate and Writs Division
County Job Title: Assistant District Attorney: Criminal Appellate and Writs Division
Salary Range: $94,000 to $108,500, Commensurate with Experience
Target Start Date: February 2, 2026
Closing Date: Until Filled
Location: Beaumont, Texas
General Job Description:
The Jefferson County Criminal District Attorney’s Office is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Attorney in the Criminal Appellate and Writs Division. The attorney will be responsible for representing the State of Texas in criminal appeals and writ proceedings.
This full-time position includes a comprehensive benefits package in accordance with Jefferson County policy, including: vacation and sick leave, health insurance, retirement benefits, and additional county-provided benefits.
The position will remain open until filled.
Essential Job Functions
The successful applicant must be able to work independently, manage time effectively, and consistently demonstrate sound legal judgment. Essential duties for this position include:
- Handling appellate litigation arising from Jefferson County criminal cases, including: reviewing appellate records and filings to resolve issues presented in criminal appeals; conducting electronic legal research; analyzing statutes, judicial decisions, and other secondary legal sources; preparing appellate briefs and motions; and preparing and presenting oral argument in various appellate courts.
- Representing the State of Texas in writ of habeas corpus proceedings, including: reviewing case files to resolve issues presented in applications; performing legal research as needed; analyzing legal authority; preparing and presenting the State’s responses, motions, and related filings; and representing the State at writ hearings and proceedings as required.
- Working effectively under pressure while exercising professionalism, sound judgment, and tact in difficult situations.
- Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships within the assigned division, the district attorney’s office, other county employees, and the public.
This job description is intended to be generic in nature and does not necessarily reflect an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required.
Minimum Qualifications
Applicant must meet the following qualifications:
- Licensed to practice law in the State of Texas.
- Newly licensed attorneys are welcome to apply if interested in a long-term career in appellate prosecution.
- Knowledge of legal principles in criminal law, or the ability to acquire such knowledge through research.
- Familiarity with the Texas Rules of Appellate Procedure and the rules of legal citation.
- Ability to identify, analyze, and resolve legal and procedural issues.
- Strong legal-research skills.
- Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
- Proficiency in word processing and legal software.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Preferred Qualifications
Applicants with the following qualifications are preferred:
- Previous appellate experience.
- Three to five years of experience practicing law in the State of Texas.
Application Procedure
To apply, applicants must submit the following materials:
1. Cover Letter
2. Resume
3. Writing sample
4. Names of two professional references
Applications may be submitted via email to: angela.kneeland@jeffersoncountytx.gov.
Please note: Interviews will be conducted by invitation only.