Senior Counsel, Investigations & Oversight

About the role

You will lead advanced investigative and research initiatives that deepen ADF's understanding of complex censorship-related systems and inform high-impact litigation, legislation, and oversight efforts. This position operates upstream of litigation and advocacy, generating the factual record, analysis, and transparency necessary to support effective legal and policy action. You will be a vital part of the Counter Censorship Task Force, synthesizing complex information into actionable insight with strong investigative instincts and excellent legal judgment. The role is designed for an attorney who can identify patterns, incentives, and structural vulnerabilities within censorship systems and coordinate strategic collaboration across teams. You will work to ensure that investigative work directly supports broader strategic objectives and upholds the organization's statement of faith.

Key facts

What you'll do

Lead investigations into censorship-related systems, networks, and institutional relationships affecting free expression and religious liberty in the United States and internationally.

Analyze the structure, governance, funding, and coordination of institutions involved in censorship-related initiatives to uncover underlying mechanisms and motivations.

Identify patterns, incentives, and structural vulnerabilities within censorship systems that can be leveraged for legal, legislative, and oversight strategies.

Design and oversee transparency initiatives, including public records and information requests at federal, state, and international levels to secure meaningful production.

Draft and supervise public records requests while ensuring follow-through and coordination with litigation teams when enforcement or escalation is required.

Analyze materials obtained through transparency efforts and translate raw data into usable investigative findings and strategic insights.

Produce investigative memoranda, briefing materials, and analytical reports that support legislative oversight and accountability efforts on censorship issues.

Identify opportunities for legislative or governmental oversight related to censorship activity and advise on potential avenues for reform and accountability.

Support litigation teams by identifying fact patterns and evidentiary developments relevant to potential cases and emerging legal threats.

Work closely with other attorneys, researchers, coalition partners, and communications professionals to ensure investigative work aligns with and advances broader strategic objectives.

Advise leadership on investigative priorities and emerging developments in censorship, ensuring the organization remains responsive and proactive.

Supervise and mentor investigative staff supporting the Counter Censorship Task Force to maintain high standards of research and analysis.

Coordinate with external subject matter experts and coalitions to strengthen the depth and credibility of investigative projects.

Maintain strict organizational and case management practices to protect sensitive information and ensure timely completion of investigative deliverables.

Contribute to the development of best practices and methodologies for conducting investigations in sensitive legal and policy environments.

Requirements

J.D., licensed to practice law in the relevant jurisdiction.

Admission to practice law in good standing in the relevant jurisdiction.

Eligibility to obtain a security clearance as determined by ADF security protocols.

Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance necessary for the performance of essential job duties.

U.S. citizenship or permanent residency as required for national security considerations related to the role.

Demonstrated experience conducting complex investigations or legal research in relevant subject matter areas.

Strong written and oral communication skills necessary for producing clear, persuasive, and accurate legal and investigative materials.

Proficiency in legal research, document analysis, and case management tools essential for managing sensitive information and deadlines.

Commitment to working collaboratively within a faith-based legal organization that operates according to a Statement of Faith.

Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Willingness to supervise and mentor junior staff in investigative techniques and legal analysis.

Capacity to coordinate effectively with cross-functional teams, including legal, communications, and research professionals.

Understanding of constitutional principles related to free speech, religious liberty, and due process as applied to censorship issues.

Willingness to travel domestically for investigations, meetings, and coordination with partners as needed.

Nice to have

Preferred experience with transparency and public records frameworks at federal, state, and international levels.

Familiarity with advocacy, litigation, or policy work related to censorship, technology, or information governance.

Experience coordinating with coalition partners or managing multi-stakeholder initiatives.

Knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes relevant to censorship and oversight.

Practical notes

This role requires U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.

Security clearance eligibility is required for this position.

Domestic travel may be necessary for investigations and coordination with partners.

Work is conducted in alignment with the organization's Statement of Faith.