Deputy Legal Director

ACLU of DC • Washington, DC

16h • Hybrid

About The Position

The American Civil Liberties Union Foundation of the District of Columbia (ACLU-DC) seeks applicants for the full-time position of Deputy Legal Director. This hybrid role is based in Washington, DC. ACLU-DC protects, promotes, and advances a broad range of constitutional values and individual rights through an integrated advocacy framework, using the tools of litigation, legislative advocacy, communication strategies and public education. ACLU-DC’s legal department engages in impact litigation and litigates a broad range of constitutional cases through direct representation, filing amicus briefs, and submitting administrative complaints. ACLU-DC’s current legal docket includes litigation against local authorities on systemic police reform, discrimination, the First Amendment, and more. The docket also includes eighteen cases against policies and practices of the second Trump administration including on immigration, trans rights, voting rights, federal workers’ rights, and freedom of speech.

Requirements

• J.D. degree and DC Bar membership (or ability to obtain DC Bar membership promptly through reciprocity or passing next DC Bar examination)
• Significant experience as an attorney and litigator (at least 8-15 years as full-time attorney; at least 5 as full-time litigator)
• Experience litigating complex constitutional civil rights matters.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise legal work product, lead case teams, and directly supervise, mentor and support staff, fellows and interns.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritize tasks effectively, and deliver results despite tight deadlines or unexpected challenges while maintaining composure.
• Superior analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to take initiative, multi-task, and work independently.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and persuasively with a wide range of audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to engage in complex legal analysis and fact-finding.
• Ability to work with a wide range of people and foster strong workplace morale and focus on mission.
• Creative and strategic approach to litigation that draws on both legal and non-legal tools.

Nice To Haves

• Be committed to advancing the priorities and mission of ACLU-DC Center and embed the principles of equity, inclusion and belonging in their work by demonstrating commitment to diversity with an approach that respects and values multiple perspectives.
• Be committed to work collaboratively and respectfully toward resolving obstacles and conflicts.

Responsibilities

• Investigate, develop, and litigate civil liberties and civil rights cases.
• Serve as lead or sole co-counsel on cases litigated jointly with national ACLU or non-ACLU cooperating attorneys.
• Lead or supervise litigation teams, including those involving co-counsel.
• Provide advice and guidance on litigation strategy and legal practice issues.
• Represent the ACLU-DC publicly through speaking engagements, media interviews, and (occasionally) legislative meetings or testimony.
• Fulfill the duties of the Legal Director in the Legal Director’s absence.
• Supervise and mentor individual attorneys, legal fellows, and paralegal.
• Work with the Legal Director to ensure that the operations and administration of the Legal Department run smoothly to facilitate its programmatic work.
• Work closely with the Legal Director to align integrated advocacy strategy among the ACLU-DC Legal, Policy, and Communications departments.
• Assist with or lead processes for recruiting, hiring, onboarding and managing legal staff, fellows, and interns.
• Serve as a member of the ACLU-DC’s leadership team, consisting of the Executive Director, Chief Program and Strategy Officer, Chief Financial and Operations Officer, Chief of Staff, Legal Director, Strategic Communications Director, Policy Advocacy Director, Director of Philanthropy.
• Collaborate with Legal Director and leadership team on strategic budgeting and organizational decision making.
• Engage in special projects and other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Generous paid time-off and leave policies, including a 90-day paid sabbatical after five years of service.
• Employer paid comprehensive healthcare benefits for the employees and family members (including medical, dental and vision coverage)
• 401k plan and employer match.
• Employer funded student loan repayment assistance.
• Annual professional development funds and internal professional development programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree