Counsel (Voting Rights Project)

Overview

A nonpartisan voting rights organization is seeking an experienced Counsel to join its Voting Rights Project. The role advances voting rights through litigation, legislative and administrative advocacy, and policy initiatives. Working with attorneys, advocates, external partners, and organizational programs, the Counsel will develop and litigate voting rights cases, support election reform efforts, and contribute to initiatives that improve access to the ballot. This position reports directly to the Litigation Director.

Responsibilities

• Develop and litigate all aspects of federal and state court lawsuits to protect and expand the right to vote, including:
  • Researching and investigating the legality of registration and voting rules and procedures
  • Drafting internal legal research memoranda
  • Analyzing the viability of potential claims
  • Drafting complaints, motions, and briefs in trial and appellate courts
  • Developing record evidence, including declarations and exhibits
  • Drafting and reviewing discovery requests
  • Taking depositions
  • Arguing motions and appeals
  • Coordinating with in-state partners
  • Engaging with state and local election officials
  • Recruiting plaintiffs and cocounsel
  • Participating in trial teams
• Work with civic engagement, voting rights, election reform, registration, and mobilization groups to advance legislation, rules, and administrative practices that expand voter participation and oppose voter suppression measures.
• Conduct ongoing outreach to state and local election officials regarding reform initiatives and opportunities to improve access to voter registration and the ballot.
• Collaborate on research and drafting for policy reports and other publications concerning election reform and voting rights.
• Draft op-eds and blog posts explaining the impact of election reforms to broader audiences and opposing voter suppression efforts.
• Participate in speaking engagements, staff and partner coalition meetings, and conferences.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate and a minimum of seven years of post-J.D. experience, which can include any mix of clerkships, fellowships, and/or practice.
• Current membership in a State Bar and the ability ultimately to waive into the D.C. Bar in the future.
• A passion for the defense and advancement of civil rights and voting rights, as well as an interest in an inclusive democracy.
• Familiarity with election and voting laws and/or policy, including some knowledge of barriers to registration and voting and the mechanics of elections.
• Proven ability to multitask, work collaboratively, and meet deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Substantial litigation experience, which need not be in civil rights or public interest litigation.
• Familiarity with community-based organizations or campaign organizing.
• Experience with policy or legislative advocacy.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $115,000 - $125,000 per year, commensurate with experience.
• Employer-paid health, vision, and dental insurance.
• 3 weeks of vacation.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution.

Location

This is a full-time, permanent, remote position but will require some travel to attend in-person meetings and events.

Equal Opportunity

The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to persons with disabilities participating in the job application or interview process.

Application Instructions

Submit a cover letter, resume, and two writing samples demonstrating legal research and writing. The priority deadline is August 23, 2026, but applications will be considered until the position is filled. Applications without a cover letter, resume, and two writing samples will be considered incomplete.