Legal Associate

Cato Institute•Washington, DC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Cato Institute’s Robert A. Levy Center for Constitutional Studies invites applicants with a law degree to its entry-level Legal Associate Program, typically for candidates with 0–2 years of legal experience. Legal associates take initiative throughout the amicus brief-writing process, including developing arguments, communicating with party counsel, conducting research, and drafting. They receive intensive one-on-one training and feedback to strengthen their legal writing skills. Cato amicus briefs are routinely filed in the U.S. Supreme Court, federal appellate courts, and state supreme courts, making the role 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 intellectual life of the Cato Institute and have opportunities to meet and assist scholars across a wide range of issue areas. The position is hybrid in Washington, DC, and lasts one year. Employment is expected to begin in Summer 2027, with flexible dates that may partly depend on when current associates depart. Applicants are encouraged, but not required, to take the bar exam before starting. 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 reviewed on a rolling basis, and slots may fill up. 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 program is entry-level.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Nice To Haves

Taking the bar exam before beginning employment is encouraged but not required.
Access to outside funding through a law school or elsewhere may be relevant; applicants are asked to indicate this in their cover letter.

Responsibilities

Develop arguments for amicus briefs.
Communicate with party counsel during the brief-writing process.
Research and draft amicus briefs filed in 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 scholars across a wide range of issue areas.