Michigan LLI Attorney - Media Law & First Amendment

U.S. Bankruptcy Court - District of CT; Detroit, Northern (MI, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press is seeking a Michigan Local Legal Initiative (LLI) Attorney based in Michigan to advise and represent journalists and news organizations on access, information, and First Amendment matters.

The role includes drafting pleadings, counseling on media law, and contributing to amicus work and pre-publication vetting. Travel across Michigan and occasional trips to Washington, D.C. are required.

Qualifications

• Admitted to practice law in Michigan or eligible for admission.
• 3+ to 10+ years of litigation and advising experience, with significant experience representing journalists and media clients.
• Self-directed with the ability to handle independently all aspects of litigation, including drafting papers and negotiating.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage litigation matters and junior attorneys.
• Outstanding legal research skills and excellent written communication.
• Excellent public speaking and oral communication skills.
• Good judgment and the highest level of professional integrity.

Responsibilities

• Represent Michigan journalists and news organizations in litigation and other matters involving access to judicial records/proceedings, FOIA, and First Amendment issues.
• Provide counsel to Michigan journalists on legal issues related to newsgathering, access to information, libel, and privacy.
• Draft amicus briefs and supervise junior attorneys on amicus briefs in important cases in Michigan.
• Educate Michigan journalists about First Amendment rights through trainings and sessions.
• Respond to hotline inquiries and coordinate with communications staff for public comment.
• Collaborate with Michigan stakeholders and internal teams to promote the LLI and its goals.
• Provide guidance and feedback to legal fellows and staff attorneys.

Skills

Litigation experience

Legal research

Written communication

Public speaking

Leadership

Integrity

Job description

The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press is seeking a Michigan Local Legal Initiative (LLI) Attorney based in Michigan to advise and represent journalists and news organizations on access, information, and First Amendment matters.

The role includes drafting pleadings, counseling on media law, and contributing to amicus work and pre-publication vetting. Travel across Michigan and occasional trips to Washington, D.C. are required.