Senior Legal Counsel, Free Speech

Alliance Defending Freedom; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 171,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization is seeking a Senior Legal Counsel to head complex litigation efforts focusing on free speech. The candidate will manage advanced legal cases, mentor junior attorneys, and contribute significantly to advocacy work. A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits are offered to ensure a supportive work environment.

Benefits

100% covered medical and dental insurance

401(k) plan with 4% company match

Paid disability and life insurance

Paid time off and 12 holidays

Qualifications

• Active license in at least one US state bar.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office and Westlaw.
• 10+ years of legal experience preferred.

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

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Organizational skills

Interpersonal communication

Verbal communication

Written communication

Education

J.D. degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

WordPerfect

Westlaw

Job description

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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: Scottsdale, AZ / Lansdowne, VA / Washington, D.C.

Team Overview

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.

Key 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

• J.D., active license in at least one US state bar and capable of meeting admission requirements in relevant jurisdiction within one year.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office, WordPerfect, and Westlaw software.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and proven project management abilities.
• Outstanding verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience
  
  

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?

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Legal

• Industries

  Law Practice

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