Deputy Legal Director - Civil Liberties Strategy Lead

American Civil Liberties Union - New Jersey; Newark (NJ); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

30 days paid time off

12 office holidays

16 health care leave days

401(k) plan with employer match

Job summary

The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey (ACLU-NJ) seeks a strategic, collaborative, and values-driven Deputy Legal Director to co-lead the legal department. Based in Newark with a hybrid schedule (office Tuesdays and Wednesdays), this role designs and litigates high-impact cases and helps advance growth in legal advocacy.

The Deputy Legal Director will supervise attorneys and staff, develop internal systems, and partner across departments to advance racial justice and civil liberties

Qualifications

• At least 8 years of full-time litigation experience in civil rights or constitutional matters.
• License to practice law in New Jersey or eligibility within twelve months.
• Proven supervision of attorneys and staff with strong organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop legal strategy aligned with organizational priorities.
• Excellent writing, research, and oral advocacy abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead or co-lead a wide range of federal and state litigation, including class actions.
• Supervise attorneys and staff; contribute to internal systems and processes.
• Develop legal strategy aligned with issue priorities and advocacy docket.
• Collaborate with allies, coalitions, and other departments for integrated advocacy.
• Represent ACLU-NJ to diverse audiences and engage with media and public events.

Skills

Litigation leadership

Civil rights law

Strategic planning

Supervising attorneys

Public speaking

Collaboration

Policy advocacy

Travel flexibility

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent

Job description

The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey (ACLU-NJ) seeks a strategic, collaborative, and values-driven Deputy Legal Director to co-lead the legal department. Based in Newark with a hybrid schedule (office Tuesdays and Wednesdays), this role designs and litigates high-impact cases and helps advance growth in legal advocacy.

The Deputy Legal Director will supervise attorneys and staff, develop internal systems, and partner across departments to advance racial justice and civil liberties