Legal Counsel, Free Speech

Alliance Defending Freedom; Lansdowne (VA); On-site; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% covered medical and dental insurance

401(k) plan with 4% company match

Paid time off and 12 paid holidays

Job summary

A leading non-profit legal organization is seeking a Legal Counsel to lead complex litigation cases supporting free speech initiatives. This role requires extensive legal expertise, including courtroom representation, legal document preparation, and mentorship for junior attorneys. The candidate should have a J.D. and at least 7 years of legal experience. Competitive benefits include comprehensive health coverage and a generous 401(k) match, promoting work-life balance with ample paid time off.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of legal experience strongly preferred.
• Excellent legal writing and research skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and litigate complex lawsuits in support of free speech.
• Produce high-quality legal papers, including briefs and motions.
• Train and mentor mid-level and junior attorneys.

Skills

Strong computer skills

Microsoft Office

WordPerfect

Westlaw software

Education

J.D., licensed to practice law

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

Overview

Make a difference with us! At Alliance Defending Freedom, we believe God has brought you here for His purpose—to stand for truth and defend the God-given right to live and speak it. Together, we protect religious freedom, free speech, the sanctity of life, marriage and family, and parental rights. Review our Statement of Faith to ensure we’re a fit for you.

Locations: Lansdowne, VA; Dallas, TX; Scottsdale, AZ

Team Overview

As Legal Counsel, you are a vital part of the US Legal Division Team. You will be responsible for evaluating and leading complex litigation matters regarding free speech. In this role, you will report to the Senior Counsel, Director of Center for Free Speech. Your primary role will be to undertake the most advanced and complex litigation handled by ADF, carrying out the brunt of day-to-day litigation, training more junior attorneys to litigate within areas of particular interest to ADF, and supervising other attorneys in complex civil litigation with emphasis on freedom of speech.

Responsibilities

• Lead and litigate complex lawsuits in support of free speech.
• Develop strategy, arguments, and testimony in preparation for presentation of cases.
• Produce high-quality legal papers, including briefs, motions, and memoranda.
• Represent and argue on behalf of clients in court.
• Conduct advanced research for free speech advocacy and resources.
• Conduct fact and expert discovery, including taking and defending depositions.
• Review, edit, prepare, and file legal briefs.
• Train and mentor mid-level and junior attorneys in all phases of the state and federal litigation.
• Represent ADF’s free speech advocacy efforts in the court of public opinion.
• Provide legal advice regarding laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and businesses.
• Partner with the Development team, including speaking engagements and other events.
• Interview and interact with the media regarding cases and issues.
• Advise allied attorneys on legal issues within areas of competence.
• Network and develop relationships with allied groups and attorneys, and/or potential allied groups and attorneys.

Minimum Qualifications

• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office, WordPerfect, and Westlaw software
• Bachelor’s degree: J.D., licensed to practice law in relevant jurisdiction
• 7+ years of experience strongly preferred

Pay & Benefits

At Alliance Defending Freedom, we offer a competitive compensation and benefits package to support your well-being and growth. While we do not disclose specific salary ranges, our compensation is competitive with top non-profit law firms. Our benefits include 100% covered medical and dental insurance, medical and dependent care reimbursement, paid disability, long-term care, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan with a 4% company match. We prioritize work-life balance with paid time off and 12 paid holidays each year.

Want to Know More About ADF?