Legal Definitions - Assistant United States Attorney

An Assistant United States Attorney is a federal prosecutor who represents the United States government in legal matters within a specific federal judicial district. These attorneys work under the direct supervision of the United States Attorney for that district, who is appointed by the President. Their responsibilities are broad, encompassing the investigation and prosecution of federal crimes, as well as representing the U.S. government's interests in civil lawsuits.

Assistant United States Attorneys handle a diverse range of cases, from national security and drug trafficking to financial fraud and environmental violations. They also defend federal agencies and employees in civil litigation and work to recover funds owed to the government.

• Example 1: Prosecuting Federal Crimes

  Imagine a scenario where a sophisticated international hacking group targets a major U.S. bank, stealing sensitive customer data and attempting to transfer millions of dollars. After the FBI conducts an extensive investigation, an Assistant United States Attorney would be assigned to the case. Their role would involve reviewing the evidence, working with federal agents, presenting the case to a grand jury to secure an indictment against the perpetrators, and then prosecuting those individuals in federal court. This includes preparing for trial, questioning witnesses, presenting evidence, and arguing the government's case to a jury or judge to secure convictions.

• Example 2: Defending Federal Agencies in Civil Lawsuits

  Consider a situation where a private contractor sues the Department of Defense, alleging a breach of contract related to a large government project. An Assistant United States Attorney from the civil division of the U.S. Attorney's Office would be responsible for defending the Department of Defense. This would involve filing legal responses, conducting discovery (exchanging information and evidence with the opposing side), negotiating potential settlements, and representing the federal agency in court if the case proceeds to trial, ensuring the government's interests are protected.

• Example 3: Recovering Funds for the Government

  Suppose a pharmaceutical company is found to have engaged in a scheme to defraud Medicare by marketing an unapproved drug and submitting false claims for reimbursement. An Assistant United States Attorney specializing in civil enforcement or healthcare fraud would initiate a civil action against the company under the False Claims Act. Their duties would include investigating the extent of the fraud, negotiating a settlement to recover the illegally obtained funds for the federal government, and, if necessary, litigating the case in federal court to secure a judgment and impose penalties on the company.