Legal Associate

Cato Institute•Washington, DC

14h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Cato Institute’s Robert A. Levy Center for Constitutional Studies is hiring an entry-level Legal Associate for a one-year program. Associates take initiative throughout the amicus brief-writing process, including developing arguments, communicating with party counsel, conducting research, and drafting briefs. Cato amicus briefs are routinely filed in the U.S. Supreme Court, federal appellate courts, and state supreme courts. Associates receive intensive one-on-one training and feedback to develop their legal writing skills, making the program preparation for a career in pro-liberty litigation. Associates also assist with projects such as editing the Cato Supreme Court Review and researching and writing for other Cato strategic initiatives. They are immersed in the Cato Institute’s intellectual life and have opportunities to meet and assist scholars across a wide range of issue areas. Applicants are encouraged, but not required, to take the bar exam before employment begins. Employment is expected to begin in Summer 2027; dates are flexible and partly depend on when current associates depart. The position is hybrid in Washington, DC, and lasts one year. Applicants should email a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and unofficial law school transcript to Mira Harris. The cover letter should indicate whether the applicant may have access to outside funding. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applicants must be authorized to work full-time in the United States; visa sponsorship is not offered.

Requirements

Law degree.
Typically 0–2 years of legal experience; the position is entry-level.
Must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Applicants are encouraged to take the bar exam before beginning employment, but it is not required.

Nice To Haves

Access to outside funding through a law school or another source is requested to be indicated in the cover letter.

Responsibilities

Develop arguments for amicus briefs.
Communicate with party counsel during the brief-writing process.
Research and draft amicus briefs for the U.S. Supreme Court, federal appellate courts, and state supreme courts.
Edit the Cato Supreme Court Review.
Research and write for other Cato strategic initiatives.
Meet and assist Cato scholars across a range of issue areas.