DETAILS:  The Office of Attorney General has an immediate opening for an Assistant Attorney General in our appellate position.  This position presents an unmatched opportunity to brief and argue cases before the South Dakota Supreme Court, United States District Court, and Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.  The attorney chosen for this spot will represent the state in criminal appeals, habeas cases, and as a prosecutor for various state licensing boards.  The position’s primary duties include researching for and writing appellate briefs and orally arguing cases. 

AAGs in South Dakota have diverse opportunities you won’t find elsewhere, including appellate practice, civil and criminal trial litigation, administrative law, and consumer protection, all under one roof, without the stress of billable hours, and with the benefit of a collaborative, friendly work environment.

OFFICE LOCATION:  The appellate division is headquartered in Pierre—the “best place to live” in South Dakota according to USA Today in 2018.  Pierre is a safe, tight-knit community with over 350 acres of parks, serene landscapes, highly rated restaurants, water and dog parks, friendly people, daily commercial flights in and out of a hassle-free airport, and an affordable cost of living.  The right applicant may have the possibility to work from a branch office location.

STARTING SALARY:  Salary for this position is $80,000 annually or greater, depending on experience.  The State of South Dakota has an exceptional benefit package including retirement, health insurance, paid leave, and paid training opportunities. 

QUALIFICATIONS:  Applicants must have a juris doctorate, be licensed to practice law in South Dakota, and have excellent writing, research, and communication skills.

APPLICATION PROCESS AND DEADLINE DATE:  Interested persons should send a cover letter, resume containing three references, and a writing sample by January 25, 2026, to: 

SARAH THORNE, OFFICE OF ATTORNEY GENERAL, 1302 E. HIGHWAY 1889, SUITE 1, PIERRE, SOUTH DAKOTA 57501, or via email to Sarah.Thorne@state.sd.us