[Hiring] Counsel @Democracy Defenders Action

Role Description

The Counsel leverages their legal research, writing, and analysis skills to support a portfolio of accountability, transparency, and ethics in government initiatives, playing a key role in all aspects of DDA’s 2027 government reform agenda. As a member of the Policy, Oversight, and Ethics (POE) department, the Counsel will report to the Deputy Director for Anticorruption and Ethics and work closely with senior department members on various matters, cultivating expertise across a spectrum of pro-democracy, anti-authoritarian issue areas and tactics.

• Identify, track, and respond to potential corruption, unethical activities, and misconduct by government officials.
• Prepare administrative complaints, regulatory comments, and Freedom of Information Act requests.
• Assist in POE’s legislative and policy reform initiatives.
• Produce high-quality written content, including policy reports and op-eds.
• Review financial disclosure reports and ethics documents for violations and trends.
• Provide subject matter expertise and research support on corruption-related litigation.
• Translate matter updates and impact for the Communications and Fundraising departments.
• Work closely with organizations and principals across the political spectrum.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Membership in good standing with a state bar in the United States.
• 2 - 8 years of legal work in relevant areas.
• Familiarity with oversight, investigative, or regulatory complaint procedures.
• Strong verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent legal writing, analytical, and research abilities.
• Sound judgement and discretion in handling sensitive information.
• Proven ability to manage multiple assignments and collaborate with stakeholders.
• Commitment to defeating election sabotage and building a resilient democracy.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
• Willingness to perform weeknight and weekend work as needed.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for meetings in DC or conferences.

Requirements

• This role is ideally based in the Washington DC/DMV area.
• Preference for candidates available for in-person tasks and meetings.
• Salary range: $85,000 - 140,000, commensurate with experience.

Benefits

• 20+ days of PTO.
• 12 holidays.
• Health insurance (100% paid for employee and 50% paid for family).
• 401K with match.
• Tech and home office stipends.
• Coworking space access.
• Recurring teambuilding opportunities.

Application Instructions

To apply, include a resume, and in lieu of a cover letter, respond briefly (300 words or less) to the below prompts. We will not consider answers created with generative AI.