The National Association of Assistant United States Attorneys in Illinois

NAAUSA Introduce

Hello, Illinois community! When we think about the American legal system, we often focus on the roles of private attorneys who represent individuals and businesses. However, a crucial part of our justice system is the work of federal prosecutors and civil attorneys who represent the United States. These dedicated professionals, known as Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs), are the frontline of our federal legal system, handling everything from criminal prosecution to civil litigation. The National Association of Assistant United States Attorneys (NAAUSA), based right here in Hoffman Estates, serves as the voice and advocate for these vital professionals.

NAAUSA is not a law firm in the traditional sense, but rather a professional association that was founded to promote, protect, and serve the common interests of this nation's frontline federal prosecutors and civil attorneys. Since its inception, NAAUSA has been a steadfast advocate for its members, working with both the Department of Justice and Congress to advance fair policies, competitive compensation, and adequate resources for those who are dedicated to safeguarding justice for all Americans. This work is crucial for ensuring that the legal professionals who uphold federal law have the support they need to perform their duties with integrity and effectiveness.

The association’s work has a direct impact on the careers of AUSAs nationwide. For example, NAAUSA has successfully advocated for pay increases for new AUSAs and continues to push for better work-life programs, such as flexible and compressed work schedules. This advocacy ensures that the best and brightest legal minds are drawn to public service and can continue to serve with distinction. They also provide valuable resources, including professional liability insurance and legal services, to help members navigate the unique challenges of their federal roles. While they are a national organization, their presence in Illinois means they have a local point of contact and a presence in the region for Assistant United States Attorneys working in our state.

For aspiring federal attorneys, students of law, and anyone interested in the inner workings of our federal justice system, NAAUSA provides an important window into the professional life of a federal prosecutor. They offer a community where these professionals can connect, share best practices, and collaborate on a secure platform. Their role in advocating for good government and ensuring the apolitical and merit-based administration of justice is a critical part of our legal framework.

The national office of NAAUSA is located at 2800 W Higgins Rd, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169. This location in the northwestern suburbs of Chicago makes it easily accessible for members and visitors in the greater metropolitan area. The address is conveniently situated on a major road, providing clear directions and accessibility from different parts of the region.

The location is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom. These accommodations are essential for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all individuals. A restroom is also available for the comfort and convenience of visitors.

NAAUSA's services are primarily for its members, who are Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs). These services are designed to support and advance the professional interests of federal prosecutors and civil attorneys.

Advocacy: They are the voice of AUSAs in the Department of Justice and Congress, lobbying for fair compensation, better working conditions, and policies that promote the integrity of the justice system.
Professional Development: NAAUSA provides access to a wealth of educational resources, including Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits through complimentary seminars and webinars, helping members enhance their legal expertise.
Legal Services and Protection: Members have access to benefits such as professional liability insurance, which is crucial for protecting them from personal lawsuits and disciplinary investigations that can arise from their work.
Community Building: They foster a supportive community where AUSAs from different offices can securely communicate, share information, and build professional relationships.
Information Resources: The association keeps its members informed on legislative developments, DOJ policies, and emerging issues in federal prosecution, acting as a valuable information resource.

NAAUSA is a unique organization with a number of features that make it a vital part of the legal community, particularly for federal attorneys.

Dedicated Representation: It is the only organization that represents the specific interests of Assistant United States Attorneys, providing them with a unified voice on important professional matters.
Proven Advocacy: The organization has a record of successful accomplishments, including securing pay increases for new AUSAs, which demonstrates their effectiveness and value to members.
Focus on Ethics and Integrity: NAAUSA is committed to supporting a merit-based system and insulating federal prosecutors from political interference, which helps safeguard the integrity of the justice system.
Valuable Member Benefits: Beyond advocacy, they offer tangible benefits like professional liability insurance, legal consultations, and educational resources that are essential for the professional and personal well-being of their members.

NAAUSA serves as a resource for Assistant United States Attorneys and related professionals. Their contact information is provided below.

Address: 2800 W Higgins Rd, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169, USA
Phone: (847) 885-8796

For Assistant United States Attorneys in Illinois and nationwide, choosing to join NAAUSA is a decision worth making for a multitude of reasons. The most compelling is their role as a dedicated advocate for the professional interests of AUSAs. In a field where the work is often high-stakes and demanding, having a unified voice to lobby for fair compensation and better working conditions is invaluable. Their success in securing pay increases for new AUSAs and their ongoing efforts to improve work-life balance are a clear testament to their effectiveness. This advocacy not only benefits current members but also helps to attract and retain the best legal talent for our federal government.

Furthermore, NAAUSA provides a critical layer of professional protection and support that is not typically offered by a government employer. The access to legal services, professional liability insurance, and continuing education resources gives members peace of mind and the tools they need to succeed in their careers. The organization’s commitment to a fair and apolitical justice system is also a significant factor. By advocating for merit-based appointments and against political interference, NAAUSA helps ensure that the work of federal prosecutors is guided by justice, not by politics. This dedication to integrity and the rule of law is a value that every citizen, and especially every legal professional, can appreciate.