Research Specialist (Legislation Specialty)

Manatt Phelps & Phillips•Los Angeles, CA

8d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Research Specialist reports to the Director of Research Services and plays a central role in the firm's growing legislative and policy intelligence function. This position tracks and synthesizes state and federal legislative developments, delivers proactive research intelligence to attorneys, consultants, and business professionals, and helps build the systems and workflows that make that intelligence scalable — including AI-assisted monitoring, alerting, and reporting tools. The ideal candidate brings deep legislative research expertise, strong analytical judgment, and a genuine interest in how AI and emerging research technologies are reshaping the delivery of legal information. Associated work includes supporting reference requests, evaluating research platforms and tools, and participating in department initiatives. This role can be based in any Manatt office.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in law, library science, information science, or a related field.
4+ years of research experience, either within a law firm or a professional services organization, with a focus on legislative and policy research.
Familiarity with state and federal legislative and regulatory processes and information sources.
Demonstrated proficiency in legal research databases, such as Westlaw, Lexis, Bloomberg Law and a variety of other resources
Working knowledge of AI platforms and an understanding of how they can be applied to legal and legislative research workflows.
Strong knowledge of library systems, research workflows, and information management practices.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex legislative content for non-specialist audiences.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with high attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
Proactive, self-directed work style with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Collaborative team player who works effectively across departments and within hybrid (remote + in-office) team structures.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications

Nice To Haves

MLIS preferred but will consider equivalent work experience.

Responsibilities

Track proposed legislation, regulations, and public policy developments relevant to the firm's practice areas and client base; synthesize findings into timely, actionable intelligence.
Research, draft, and produce in-depth reports, issue summaries, comparative analyses, and timelines on proposed laws and regulatory actions — proactively delivering intelligence before it is requested where possible.
Leverage AI platforms and research tools to design and build systems for legislative monitoring, alerting, and stakeholder reporting; identify opportunities to expand and improve these systems over time.
Provide research support across all practice groups and business units, responding to incoming requests with accuracy, thoroughness, and clear communication.
Participate in the assessment and trialing of new research platforms and AI solutions; contribute to resource evaluations and provide informed recommendations.
Collaborate effectively with peers to manage research requests received from attorneys, consultants and firm staff, contribute to department projects, and support the team's broader strategic goals.
Assist with other research tasks and projects as required.