Counsel (Voting Rights Project)

Overview

This role involves serving as Counsel on the Voting Rights Project (VRP), supporting the organization’s mission through litigation, legislative and administrative advocacy, and policy initiatives that protect and expand the right to vote. Work is carried out in collaboration with attorneys, advocates, external partners, and programs across the organization. The Counsel develops and litigates voting rights cases in federal and state courts, supports election reform efforts, and contributes to strategic initiatives that improve access to the ballot. The 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 memos and analyzing the viability of potential claims
  • Drafting complaints, motions, and briefs for trial and appellate courts
  • Developing record evidence, including declarations and exhibits
  • Drafting and reviewing discovery requests and taking depositions
  • Arguing motions and appeals
  • Coordinating with in-state partners
  • Engaging with state and local election officials
  • Recruiting plaintiffs and co-counsel
  • Participating in trial teams and related work
• Work with partner civic engagement, voting rights, election reform, registration, and mobilization groups to advance legislation, rules, and administrative practices that expand voter participation and to oppose voter suppression measures.
• Conduct ongoing outreach to state and local election officials to discuss reform initiatives and identify opportunities to collaborate to improve voters’ access to voter registration and the ballot.
• Collaborate on researching and drafting policy reports and other publications on election reform and voting rights.
• Draft op-eds and blog posts to communicate the impact of various election reforms to wider audiences and to oppose voter suppression efforts.
• Additional responsibilities include speaking engagements, attending staff and partner coalition meetings, and participating in conferences.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor and a minimum of five years post-J.D. experience required, which can include any mix of clerkships, fellowships, and/or practice.
• Must currently be a member of a State Bar.
• Substantial litigation experience is strongly preferred, though this need not be civil rights or public interest litigation experience.
• A passion for the defense and advancement of civil rights and voting rights is essential, as is 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.
• Familiarity with community-based organizations and/or campaign organizing is preferred.
• Policy or legislative advocacy experience is a plus.
• Proven ability to multi-task, work collaboratively, and meet deadlines.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $100,000 - $125,000 per year, commensurate with experience.
• Full-time, permanent, remote position with some travel required to attend in-person meetings and events.
• Employer-paid health, vision, and dental insurance.
• 3 weeks of vacation.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution.

Location

Remote, with some travel required to attend in-person meetings and events.

Equal Opportunity

The organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the work environment. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants and candidates with disabilities as needed for the application or interview process.

Application Instructions

Submit a cover letter, resume, and two writing samples demonstrating legal research and writing. The priority deadline is September 15, 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.