Legal Counsel, Academic Freedom

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 / Dallas, TX

Team Overview

As Legal Counsel, you are a vital part of the ADF Team. In this role, you are responsible for undertaking the most advanced and complex litigation handled by ADF, carrying the brunt of the day-to-day litigation. Supervise junior attorneys in complex civil litigation with an emphasis on First Amendment law and 42 U.S.C. § 1983 civil rights actions.

Key Responsibilities

• Litigate complex cases at appellate and trial levels.

• Undertake immediate legal action in urgent circumstances.

• Exercise initiative to investigate potential cases.

• Represent clients in court and before quasi-judicial or administrative agencies of government.

• Review and edit substantive briefs.

• Participate in moot courts for appellate and trial cases.

• Train and mentor junior attorneys in all phases of state and federal litigation.

• Maintain superior quality of all legal papers via review and editing; conduct advanced legal research on novel issues of law.

• Interview clients and witnesses.

• Prepare and file legal briefs.

• Develops strategy, arguments, and testimony in preparation for the presentation of the case.

• Provide legal advice regarding laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and businesses.

• Cooperate with the Development team by accepting various opportunities to communicate ADF’s legal operations to our ministry friends.

• Network and develop relationships with allied attorneys, and/or potential allied attorneys.

Skills you need to succeed:

• Excellent organizational, analytical, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Strong attention to detail and proven project management skills.

• Excellent problem solving skills.

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.

• 5+ years of legal experience.

• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office, WordPerfect, and Westlaw software.

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.

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