Trial Division, Corrections Litigation Unit
Duties and Responsibilities
The Trial Division of the Oregon Department of Justice is seeking applications for a permanent, full-time Assistant Attorney General in its Corrections Litigation Unit (CLU). The individual selected for this position will join a team of lawyers who specialize in defending Oregon’s Department of Corrections (ODOC) and its officers and employees in civil lawsuits filed by current and former Adults in Custody (AICs). CLU attorneys are responsible for independently managing high-volume, fast-paced caseloads, with cases in Oregon’s state and federal trial courts.
The state cases that CLU attorneys handle include state habeas matters in which AICs brings a state or federal constitutional claim challenging the authority for confinement or the conditions of confinement, civil torts, and mandamus cases. The federal cases that CLU attorneys handle include cases brought under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 and the federal constitution, Americans with Disabilities Act, and Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act.
CLU’s team is at the forefront of constitutional issues facing ODOC, one of our nation’s most progressive adult corrections agencies. CLU cases present a diverse range of issues, including First Amendment challenges (e.g., religious, mail, access to courts, and visitation cases), Eighth Amendment challenges (e.g., use of force and conditions of confinement cases), Fourteenth Amendment challenges (e.g., equal protection and due process cases), and issues related to medical care. CLU’s team has many opportunities for individuals who enjoy researching and writing on novel areas of constitutional law, as well as for those who want opportunities to regularly appear in court and try cases.
DOJ’s Trial Division has flexible remote working capabilities. Corrections Litigation Unit AAGs are able to work remotely and from the office. Everyone works 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. This position can be based out of Portland or Salem.
Questions regarding this position should be directed to Kristen Boyd, Interim Chief Trial Counsel or Nathan Riemersma, Attorney-in-Charge, Corrections Litigation Unit, at (503) 947-4700.
Apply Here:
Assistant Attorney General (Corrections Litigation Unit)
Closes March 24, 2026 at 11:58 p.m.
