[Hiring] Senior Counsel / Counsel / Senior Staff Attorney @Democracy Forward

Role Description

Democracy Forward Foundation (“Democracy Forward”) is seeking attorneys with criminal and congressional investigations experience to join our team. The ideal candidates will have experience with:

• Criminal investigations, including grand jury or other law enforcement investigations
• Congressional investigations, including the use of congressional subpoenas
• Criminal and civil litigation, including courtroom advocacy, witness presentations, and motions practice
• Client development and coalition partnerships

The position will focus on conducting criminal defense and enforcement representations, including state and federal law enforcement or grand jury investigations, congressional investigations, and litigation. The position may also include advocacy or civil litigation on anti-corruption enforcement and prevention issues.

This position is full-time. Democracy Forward’s office is located in Washington, DC. Remote candidates within the United States will also be considered. If a candidate is outside of the DC area, travel to DC is expected 1-2 times per quarter.

This role will report to the Co-Directors of Anti-Corruption Initiatives and Senior Counsel and work closely with all staff across the legal team.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as lead or co-counsel in criminal proceedings in federal and state courts, including advising clients on litigation strategy, risks, and objectives, and carrying out all aspects of the client’s defense through investigation, prosecution, and appeal.
• Assist in representing Democracy Forward Foundation clients in civil litigation that involves criminal or criminal-adjacent matters.
• Represent clients in congressional investigations, including litigating and responding to congressional subpoenas and preparing witnesses for depositions or hearing testimony.
• Participate in anti-corruption initiatives, including affirmative investigation, litigation, and legal advocacy.
• Work with partners from a wide range of public interest spheres to develop, litigate, and raise awareness of Democracy Forward Foundation’s legal work.
• Contribute affirmatively to a workplace culture of inclusion and equity.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing in the bar of the District of Columbia, or membership in good standing in another state bar with the ability to become admitted in D.C.
• For Senior Counsel positions, at least 7 years of relevant experience post-law school.
• Demonstrated experience in criminal representation and investigations.
• Familiarity with legal doctrines applicable to criminal litigation.
• Demonstrated excellence in performing legal research and drafting legal documents.
• Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully on a team.
• Ability to handle multiple concurrent assignments and meet deadlines.
• Ability to become proficient in new issue areas and contribute to creative, rigorous, analytical approaches.
• Ability to develop and maintain relationships with clients and partner organizations.
• Well-developed collaborative and interpersonal skills.

Requirements

• This role may require occasional travel for client matters, conferences, or organizational meetings.
• This role may involve sitting for extended periods and working on a computer. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed.

Benefits

• Senior Counsel - $175,000 - $230,000
• Counsel - $155,000 - $165,000
• Senior Staff Attorney - $135,000 - $145,000

Company Description

Democracy Forward Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals.

We strongly encourage people of color; LGBTQIA+ people; women; people with disabilities; and veterans to apply.

Democracy Forward is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all, including those with disabilities.