Legal Counsel, Government Affairs
The Legal Counsel, Government Affairs at Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) is a pivotal role within the Government Affairs team, focusing on engagement with state attorneys general and federal executive branch officials. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of state attorney general offices, prior government experience, and a proven ability to build and sustain relationships with government officials and conservative organizations. This attorney will serve as both a legal resource and a relationship ambassador, working at the intersection of law and policy.
Key responsibilities include cultivating and maintaining relationships with state attorneys general, their senior staff, and key officials in the federal executive branch. The role involves coordinating and advancing projects with state attorney general offices, including litigation opportunities and multistate amicus curiae briefs, as well as with federal executive branch officials on litigation and regulatory matters. Representing ADF at Republican Attorneys General Association (RAGA) events and similar forums, monitoring legal and policy developments at the state and federal levels, and managing special projects requiring both legal analysis and political awareness are also integral to this position.
Candidates should possess a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree with an active license in at least one U.S. state bar and the capability to meet admission requirements in the relevant jurisdiction within one year. A minimum of five years of legal experience is required, with at least one year of experience working in a state attorney general's office. Preferred qualifications include judicial clerkship experience, demonstrated experience in multistate litigation and amicus advocacy, and existing relationships within the state attorneys general community and various legal networks. Experience navigating both legal and political dimensions of government engagement and a willingness to travel regularly for events, meetings, and coalition activities are also desirable.
The compensation for this role is competitive, with a salary range of $152,600 to $219,300 USD annually, depending on experience and office location. 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. Paid time off and 12 paid holidays each year are also provided to support work-life balance.
Alliance Defending Freedom is a nonprofit legal organization dedicated to protecting religious freedom, free speech, the sanctity of life, marriage and family, and parental rights. The organization offers a collaborative environment where employees are encouraged to grow spiritually and professionally, with daily chapel, prayer gatherings, and a full-time chaplain being central to the workday. Generous paid time off, 12 paid holidays, maternity/paternity/adoption leave, and free personal finance advisory services are part of the comprehensive benefits package. The organization also offers a 401(k) plan with a 4% company match and covers 100% of medical and dental premiums for employees and their families.