The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) offers recent law school graduates and experienced practitioners the opportunity to work as public interest fellows or pro bono attorneys.

Public interest fellowships are available to recent law school graduates who have secured financial support—typically from a law firm or a law school—that allows them to work pro bono for a public interest organization. Public interest fellows commit to working full time for three to eighteen months in a division or section of OAG that specializes in civil or criminal enforcement, defensive litigation, legal counsel, or transactional work. Fellows can expect to receive supervision and mentoring by an attorney-manager, formal training opportunities, and (as they develop new skills) progressively more challenging assignments.

There are many other opportunities for experienced practitioners and recent law school graduates to provide pro bono service to OAG on a full or part-time basis. A volunteer will usually be assigned to one of OAG’s divisions or sections, or to one or two specific matters, reflecting both the interests of the volunteer and the needs of OAG.

Attorneys interested in learning more about pro bono opportunities at the Office of the Attorney General should contact Keya Ross at (202) 724-2308 or keya.ross@dc.gov.

Requirements to be considered a Pro Bono Attorney

• Two letters of recommendation
• An official transcript (if less than 5 years out of law school)
• A certificate of good standing
• A completed background release form

Learn more about The Office of the Attorney General

When people talk about a “nuisance” in their neighborhood, they can mean many different things that damage their quality of life, from drug sales to overgrown lawns. The District government can help, but who you can call depends on what kind of help you need. (Learn more about the Drug-, Firearm-, or Prostitution-Related Nuisance Abatement Law.)

Here is who you can contact for different types of neighborhood nuisances:

Criminal Activity

Call 9-1-1 to report criminal activity in your neighborhood, including

• Drug use, manufacture, or sale;*
• Illegal guns*
• Prostitution;*
• Stalking or harassment;
• Vandalism;

*With the help of MPD, the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) can sometimes file legal actions against property owners in cases involving drug-,firearm- or prostitution-related nuisances. These OAG actions are aimed at forcing owners of properties where criminal activity occurs to make changes that improve safety and security. They occur in addition to any criminal cases that are brought against individuals for these of offenses. You should always call MPD first if you are concerned about drugs, guns, or prostitution in your neighborhood.

For non-emergency calls, you can contact Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Command Information Center at (202) 727-9099

To request a copy of a police report, please contact the MPD Public Documents Section at (202) 727-4357

Blight & Repair Issues

Unkempt, run down, or damaged buildings are a common source of “nuisance” complaints from District residents. The District has laws that require owners to keep their property clean and buildings in good repair, called the “Housing Code.”

The Department of Buildings (DOB) enforces the Housing Code in the District. DOB inspectors can issue notices and fines for violations of the Housing Code:

• Overgrown grass, weeds, and trash;
• Vacant properties not boarded up;
• Damage to the outside of a building;
• Construction without proper permits;
• Unlicensed commercial activities, such as
  • home rentals;
  • bars, restaurants, or entertainment;
  • car repair and tire shops;

To report any of these issues, contact DCRA to request an inspection at https://dob.dc.gov/service/get-inspection

Animal Nuisances

The Department of Health – Animal Control Division brings enforcement actions against nuisances that involve animals, including:

• Dangerous dogs and unleashed dogs running loose;
• Rabid animals;
• Other animal-related issues.

Call the Department of Health to report an animal nuisance:

Monday-Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (202) 535-2323
24 hour line: (202) 576-6664

The Tenant Receivership Act

The Tenant Receivership Act (TRA) is a District law that allows the Attorney General to ask a judge to appoint a “Receiver” to address chronic health and safety issues at a rental property. A receiver is a neutral third party who takes control of the property, makes all decisions about its management and operation, and ensures necessary repairs are made. The receiver must be a person or company with experience managing rental properties, as well as the knowledge and skills to assess what repairs are needed at a building and to hire and supervise professionals to make the repairs.

When does this law apply?

The TRA applies to situations where there are risks to life, health and safety because of chronic neglect by the owner or manager. A judge can appoint a Receiver if the judge agrees that at least one of the following is true:

1. The Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) has served Notices of Violation ordering the owner to repair code violations that present a risk to health, safety, and security, and the owner failed to correct the code violations in the time allowed.
   
   Example: DCRA inspects an apartment building on the first day of the month and finds that there are no smoke alarms or fire extinguishers anywhere in the building. The inspectors write a Notice of Violation to the owner that tells the owner to fix the problem in five days. The inspectors send that notice by mail, and the owner receives the mail on the third day of the month. The owner has until the 8th of the month to fix the problem. If the smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are still missing on the 9th, that would be grounds for appointing a Receiver.
    
2. The owner has engaged in a pattern and practice of neglect that has resulted in risks to health, safety, or security that have been present for more than 30 days.
   
   This ground for a receiver is useful where problems caused by landlord’s neglect are difficult or impossible for DCRA to cite. For example, DCRA does not cite for mold. Other problems our office has seen that did not have DCRA citations:

• Pest infestation: Sometimes tenants experience chronic pest infestation for more than 30 days, but the DCRA inspector does not see signs of pests on the day they come to inspect, so they do not issue a citation for that problem.
• Roof or plumbing leaks: In some cases, landlords will repair walls and ceilings damaged by chronic leaks, without actually fixing the cause of the leak.

How does the Attorney General build a case for a Receiver?

When our office hears about a property that might need a Receiver, we will investigate the situation to see whether the facts justify filing a case. OAG generally hears about problematic properties in one of two ways: DCRA Notices and tenant complaints based on their experiences.

DCRA Notices: OAG will

1. Review existing DCRA Notices
2. Schedule a property-wide inspection
3. Schedule a follow-up inspection to see whether owner fixed the violations

Tenant Experiences: OAG will

1. Speak to Tenants Association or to tenants directly. If there is no Tenant Association, our office may ask tenant organizers to help with outreach to tenants.
2. Make sure all residents can provide access to DCRA for property-wide inspections.
3. Collect tenant statements and other relevant evidence about conditions in the property.

What is the remedy? (What does the Receiver do?)

If OAG makes the case for appointing a Receiver and the judge agrees that a Receiver is necessary, the Receiver “takes over” property management and:

• Collects rents;
• Makes emergency repairs;
• In the first 30 days, conducts an assessment of needs at the property and creates a plan for fixing the property (an “abatement plan”);
• Submits the abatement plan to the judge in the case for review by the judge and the parties;
• Controls the property until all repairs have been made OR the court ends the Receivership for another reason.

Important Exception: Before the court decides to appoint a Receiver, the owner of the property can propose their own abatement plan:

• The law states that the owner can propose to fix problems at the property through their own abatement plan instead of having a Receiver appointed.
• Courts are often inclined to allow owners this last chance before appointing a Receiver.
• If owner fails (“defaults”) under the terms of their own plan, a Receiver can be appointed.

Tenant Receivership and Consumer Claims

When the Attorney General files a petition to appoint a Receiver under the TRA, we will also file consumer protection claim as part of the same case. While a Receiver addresses conditions going forward, a consumer claim allows our office to get some repayment for tenants for the rent they paid while living in dangerous or unhealthy conditions caused by the owner’s neglect.

The District’s consumer protection statute protects consumers from fraud in the representation of a consumer good. In a consumer case about rental apartments:

• The rental property is the consumer good;
• The representation is the “implied warranty of habitability” – anyone who rents an apartment is implicitly claiming that the apartment is in a livable and safe condition.
• The fraud is the poor condition of the property.

The Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia (OAG) seeks highly qualified undergraduate and graduate students to work as volunteer interns during the academic year and summer vacation. OAG’s internship program provides students with a challenging experience that reflects the demands and rewards of public service. Each year OAG recruits a diverse population of interns from educational institutions across the United States, as well as internationally. OAG has a wide-ranging practice area that offers students an array of interest areas to select from.

Interning at OAG is a great experience! You will get involved in a variety of interesting legal tasks, such as assisting attorneys with legal research, motions, advice memos, discovery, and trial. On any given day you may be researching, gathering documents, answering interrogatories, or taking notes during a witness deposition. Or, you may be needed to assist attorneys at trial or a hearing and see first hand how to select a jury, or make a dynamic opening statement.

Many OAG interns find themselves in the midst of newsworthy and politically charged cases. You will also participate in several field trips, including tours of the DC jail, the MPD headquarters/training academy, and a visit to the District of Columbia Court of Appeals to view an oral argument. In addition, you will have the opportunity to attend presentations from OAG attorneys on topics such as case law regarding environmental issues, ethics, opening and closing statements, taking depositions, domestic violence, child protection, criminal and juvenile prosecution, and appellate advocacy.

Law student interns will also develop legal writing and research skills with training in Lexis research, and practicing how to apply various federal, state and common laws to cases. You will develop your legal writing skills by drafting motions, advice memos, mediation statements and case briefs.

Our interns speak highly of their rich work experience at OAG—working hands on with attorneys, paralegals and other law students, while enjoying the sights and sounds of the nation’s capital. It is no surprise that many students following law school decide to apply to our office for permanent positions.

Selection Criteria and Process

Internships are open to undergraduate, graduate and law students in good academic standing. The selection process for the Internship Program is highly competitive. Candidates are selected based on scholastic achievement and demonstrated leadership.

Internships are unique and tailored to each student's needs, interests and schedule. We will talk with you to learn about your interests, skills, experience, preparation and training. After receiving the completed application and supporting documents, the internship coordinator will contact you to arrange a suitable placement that is mutually beneficial. You may be sent additional forms to complete the process.

Open Postings

How to Apply

You’ll need the following:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Writing sample, 3 to 5 pages in length
• Transcripts (Unofficial transcript acceptable)
• Completed Ethnic/Racial Self-Identification Form (optional)

Because OAG receives numerous applications, we request that students only fill out one complete application. Submitting either duplicate applications or incomplete applications may affect efficient processing of your application.

For questions, please contact:

Keya Ross, Internship and Summer Associates Coordinator

Phone: (202) 724-2308

Fax: (202) 741-8876

Email: OAG.Internship@dc.gov

Deadline for Applications

The application deadlines are below. We will also continue to accept applications and place interns after these deadlines if space is available.

Because OAG conducts a formal mandatory orientation on the first day for Interns and Summer Associates, we cannot change our start dates.

Related Content:

Ethnic/Racial Self-Identification Form

Jobs with OAG

The attorneys, paralegals, investigators, administrative assistants, and other hard-working professionals at the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) promote the public interest of the District of Columbia and its citizens. Learn more about the divisions of OAG and the varied work they do on behalf of District residents by reading our blog series, "Voices from Across my Office."

Our employees work daily to represent the District in court and administrative proceedings, prosecute certain criminal offenses and provide the city with high-level legal advice. Employees also protect our city’s most vulnerable residents by taking legal action to preserve affordable housing, support children, and seniors, protect consumers, prioritize data-driven juvenile justice reform, and more. OAG boasts some of the District of Columbia's most experienced and respected professionals, whose work shapes local law at the municipal, state, and federal levels.

Click below to learn more about our open job vacancies.

Application Procedure: Supervisory and Staff Attorney Positions

Application Procedure: Professional Staff Positions

Staff Attorney Postings:

• Trial Attorney, Civil Litigation Division (Job ID: 25946; Date Closed: 04/29/2024)
• Supervisory Trial Attorney, Civil Litigation Division (Job ID: 25939; Date Closed: 05/02/2024)
• Trial Attorney, Civil Litigation Division (Job ID: 25861; Date Closed: 05/10/2024)
• Trial Attorney, Public Safety Division (Job ID: 25949; Date Closed: 05/10/2024)

Note: To be eligible for an attorney position you must be a current member in good standing of a bar and be eligible to waive into the District of Columbia within 360 days of appointment. Current JD law students are not eligible for attorney positions but may apply for OAG’s internship program that accepts applications throughout the year.

Professional Staff Postings:

• Program Analyst, Immediate Office (Job ID: 25851; Date Closed: 04/29/2024)
• Case Management Specialist, Child Support Services Division (Job ID: 25862; Date Closed: 05/01/2024)
• Investigator, Public Advocacy Division (Job ID: 25841; Date Closed: 05/02/2024)
• Support Services Specialist, Support Services Division (Job ID: 25929; Date Closed: 05/02/2024)

Internal Job Postings:

• Case Management Specialist, Child Support Services Division (Job ID: 25860; Date Closed: 04/27/2024)
• Trial Attorney, Public Safety Division (Job ID: 26017; Date Closed: 05/05/2024)

Internship Postings:

ACCOMMODATIONS: If any applicant has questions or needs a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact us at OAGHR@dc.gov.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION: In accordance with the DC Human Rights Act of 1977, as amended, DC Official Code Section 2-1401.01 et seq., the District of Columbia does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived: race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, familial status, family responsibilities, genetic information, matriculation, political affiliation, disability, source of income, or place of residence or business. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is prohibited by the Act. In addition, harassment based on any of the above-protected categories is prohibited by the act. Discrimination in violation of the Act will not be tolerated. Violators will be subjected to disciplinary action.

DISPOSITION OF RESUME: APPLICANTS WILL ONLY BE NOTIFIED IF AN INTERVIEW IS GRANTED. Resumes received outside the area of consideration and/or after the closing date will not be given consideration.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.

Learn more about the Community Dispute Resolution Program.

Filing Notice of a Claim Against DC

Individuals wishing to file claims against the District of Columbia Government for unliquidated damages (loss, damage, or injury), must file a Notice of Claim letter within six months of the date of the incident pursuant to the below specifications.

What to include in the Notice of Claim letter

The Notice of Claim letter must contain the items numbered 1-5 below, which are required by statute (D.C. Official Code § 12-309, which can be accessed through the hyperlink above). If the statutory requirements are not satisfied, the claim will be denied. Under certain circumstances, reports of the Metropolitan Police Department may also satisfy the notice requirement, provided that they contain all of the information required by the statute.

Notice letters MUST include:

1. The identity of the claimant (please include enough information to identify and contact the claimant, which may include home address, work and home phone numbers, and date of birth)
2. The date and approximate time of the incident
3. The location of the incident
4. The cause of the damage or injury
5. The circumstances under which the damage or injury was sustained (explain, in detail, why the District of Columbia should be liable for the damage or injury).

Please also include the following information or documents if available at the time you provide your initial notice to the District of Columbia.  Although this information is not required, it will assist the assigned investigator in assessing your claim:

• Any police or other reports related to the incident
• Documents showing ownership at the time of the damage and original cost of damaged items
• Estimates for repairs
• Medical bills and/or medical reports

How to submit the Notice of Claim letter

Notice of Claim letters must be RECEIVED by the Office of Risk Management within six months of the date of the incident. Only the Office of Risk Management is authorized to accept such letters on behalf of the Mayor.

The mailing address for the Notice of Claim letter is:

Office of Risk Management
ATTN: Claims
441 4th Street, NW, Suite 800 South
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 727-8600

Within approximately 30 days after receipt of the claim, an acknowledgement letter will be sent to the claimant that will provide the claim number and the identity of the investigator assigned to the claim. If you have occasion to contact the Office of the Attorney General while your claim is being processed, please reference the claim number and investigator.

For claims filed under the District of Columbia Human Rights Act or the District of Columbia Whistleblower Protection Act, or for claims alleging a violation of a federal statute, including claims alleging a Constitutional violation, the above notice provisions do not apply. Additionally, the above notice provisions do not apply to claims seeking liquidated damages, such as enforcement of a contract or claims that solely seek equitable relief.

Support Services Division

The Support Services Division provides the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) with essential financial, risk management, operations, administrative and investigations services.

Office of the Solicitor General

The Office of the Solicitor General handles litigation for the Office of the Attorney General in the appellate courts, including the District of Columbia Court of Appeals, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit and the Supreme Court of the United States.

The Office’s cases include appeals from trial courts in a wide variety of civil and criminal matters and petitions for review from more than fifty District agencies.

Legal Counsel Division

The Legal Counsel Division provides legal advice to the Mayor, the Attorney General, the Council of the District of Columbia, department and agency heads and the District of Columbia Courts. The Division also reviews and sometimes drafts legislation, rules, Mayor’s Orders and agreements to help ensure that they comply with relevant laws. From time to time, the Division is asked to prepare legislation, agreements, and new rules. The Division reviews each bill passed by Council and advises the Mayor about whether it complies with law.

The Legal Counsel Division supports the Attorney General and OAG by preparing opinions, legal memoranda, letters, agreements, Office Orders and other documents for the Attorney General's signature. Attorneys in the Division represent OAG in intergovernmental and multijurisdictional meetings and negotiations, as requested.

Office of Privacy and Confidentiality

LCD houses the District’s Office of Privacy and Confidentiality (OPC) established for sustained compliance with, among other things, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability (HIPAA). OPC serves as the District’s single point of contact for HIPAA privacy and security; oversees HIPAA operations for certain agencies, coordinates the District’s privacy and security officers; receives and resolves privacy and security complaints from the public and employees; monitors and reports on interpretations of HIPAA regulations; and conduct independent investigations for corrective action.

Ethics Standards

All District government employees must maintain high standards of honesty, integrity, and impartiality. Employees of the Office of the Attorney General are responsible for the crucial job of providing legal services for the District government. It is essential that they carry out this responsibility consistent with the laws and regulations that establish how to do so ethically.

The brief description of the District’s ethics rules and regulations is provided as an overview. More detailed information is set out in the District’s Ethics Manual. It contains a helpful description of the District’s ethics restrictions, examples, questions and answers, and detailed references to the controlling legal authorities. The Manual is prepared by the District’s Board of Ethics and Government Accountability (BEGA) and is available under “Ethics Manual”.

You may also ask an ethics counselor, a BEGA attorney, or the DC Bar’s legal ethics counsel for further information. Their contact information is in the “Advice and further information” section.

Related Content: 

The District’s Code of Conduct and BEGA

Political Activity

Federal Restrictions

DC Bar Rules

Advice and Further Information