HUD’s Legal Honors Program is designed for law students graduating from J.D. and LLM programs, and recent law school graduates completing a judicial clerkship. The Legal Honors Program is HUD’s only hiring program for entry-level attorneys. Subject to appropriations, approximately 10-20 legal honor positions are available annually in headquarters and field offices. Successful candidates begin work in August or September and participate in a 14-month appointment that may lead to a permanent position, pending bar admission. During the program, Legal Honors are assigned mentors, are given the opportunity to rotate to other offices within OGC, and participate in additional training and monthly discussions to enhance their program experience and develop their legal abilities.

The program is highly competitive and candidates are selected on the basis of merit. Selection considerations include many factors, such as: academic achievement; law review and other publication work; extracurricular activities such as moot court competitions and legal clinics; employment history; and participation in activities related to HUD’s mission.

The Department provides reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. It is the policy of the Department of Housing and Urban Development to promote the maximum employment and job advancement for qualified disabled veterans, similar to its policy, goals and objectives with reference to all persons with disabilities. All applicants for employment with the Department of Housing and Urban Development are judged without regard to their race, age, sex, color, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation or familial status.

For more information about the Legal Honors Program, review the program brochure and frequently asked questions page, or send an email to LegalHonors@hud.gov.