Legislative Counsel

The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) is one of the nation's leading advocates on behalf of constitutional rights and liberties. Founded in 1951, as the New York affiliate of the American Civil Liberties Union, the NYCLU is a not-for-profit, nonpartisan organization with 48,000 members statewide. The NYCLU seeks to employ for the position of Legislative Counsel an individual who, under the supervision of the Legislative Director, will play a key role in the organization’s efforts to promote and defend civil rights and civil liberties in the legislative and public-policy arenas.

Roles And Responsibilities:

• Draft memoranda based on research and analysis of state and local legislation, rules and regulations that implicate civil rights and civil liberties.
• Win support for the NYCLU’s positions on legislative and public-policy matters through direct lobbying of legislators, public officials and their staffs.
• Draft briefing papers and public education materials on pending legislation and legislative proposals.
• Prepare and deliver testimony at public hearings conducted by the New York State Legislature, the New York City Council and other policy-making bodies.
• Assist in developing and implementing legislative advocacy campaigns, in coordination with the NYCLU’s advocacy and communication departments.

Experience And Qualifications:

• J.D. required. Candidates with at least two years of legal or public policy experience are preferred.
• Demonstrated commitment to and knowledge of civil liberties and civil rights.
• Excellent legal research, writing and oral communication skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively.
• An understanding of the legislative process, and experience in organizing and working with coalitions to achieve legislative goals.
• An ability to explain clearly and persuasively, to experts and non-experts, the NYCLU’s analysis of legal principles and related public-policy issues.
• Applicants should possess initiative and the capacity to work effectively when faced with time constraints.

How To Apply

Applicants should email a cover letter (with salary requirements), resume, and writing samples such as a research memo, article, or brief by email to jobs@nyclu.org with “Legislative Counsel” in the subject line.

Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.

The NYCLU is proud to be an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, people of color, persons with disabilities, and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals.