When you picture the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) workforce, you might think of doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers, but did you also know we employ over 800 attorneys? 

For attorneys who entered law to make a real difference, VA offers something most legal careers cannot: the opportunity to put your skills to work for our nation’s heroes. 

VA’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) is one of the largest and most dynamic legal organizations in the federal government, offering practitioners a breadth of work that spans healthcare law, benefits litigation, employment law, ethics and beyond. But it isn’t just the variety of legal challenges that sets VA apart, it’s our sacred mission to serve Veterans. 

Keep reading to learn more about why VA is the employer of choice for attorneys around the nation and how you can join our team. 

Practice with purpose 

Every brief filed, every case resolved moves the needle for millions of Veterans and their families who depend on VA for care, support and the benefits they’ve earned. VA attorneys play a key role in enabling VA to accomplish its mission of service.  

“Everything we do here is about ensuring really high-quality service for our Veterans,” said Deputy Chief Counsel Sean Safdi, who is based in Denver. “If we’re able to help a team resolve a complicated case or administrative law issue, it allows our frontline employees to do what they do best—caring for Veterans.” 

Additionally, VA attorneys: 

• Ensure the just and faithful execution of the laws, regulations and policies that the VA Secretary administers 
• Serve as VA’s in-house counsel and provide sound legal advice 
• Practice across a wide range of legal specialties, from employment and labor law to healthcare regulation and appellate litigation 

Employment benefits that fit 

VA proudly offers a comprehensive employment benefits package, including competitive compensation, health, dental and vision coverage, as well as generous personal and sick leave.  

In addition to education incentives to help you stay at the top of your game, there are so many reasons to choose VA. 

Just starting out? VA’s got you covered with training and employment opportunities for students and early-career attorneys. Check out OGC’s internship program and honors program (expected to return in fiscal year 2027) for more details and eligibility requirements. 

“The opportunities for advancement at VA surprised me,” said Safdi. “Even as a brand-new attorney here, there are opportunities to work on special teams, special projects, and work groups handling important and high-visibility matters.” 

Join our mission 

We are always looking for qualified critical thinkers and problem solvers to join our legal team.  

“I really love my job here,” Safdi added. “Our attorneys, paralegal support staff, supervisors—everyone here is part one team with a singular focus on helping our Veterans.” 

If a career in service of Veterans sounds like the fit for you, consider a rewarding career at VA. Learn more at VA Careers.