Legal Counsel, Christian Ministries

About the role

You will own the full lifecycle of assigned litigation matters from initial client intake through final resolution, ensuring every strategic decision reflects a commitment to constitutional principles. You will exercise significant judgment in developing novel legal theories that defend the free exercise of religion and freedom of speech. This position requires a high degree of ownership, as you will manage case files and client communications with minimal direct supervision. You will serve as a critical thought partner to ministry leaders, translating complex legal landscapes into actionable ministry protections. Your work will directly impact the ability of churches and religious schools to operate according to their deeply held beliefs. You will act as a frontline defender of the Gospel, ensuring that the truth of Scripture is not silenced by government overreach. This role demands integrity, resilience, and a deep passion for preserving religious liberty for future generations.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Investigate the factual and legal dimensions of potential cases involving religious freedom and speech.
• Draft complex legal documents, including complaints, motions, and briefs, that articulate a compelling defense of constitutional rights.
• Conduct in-depth legal research to identify precedent and strategy that supports the mission of protecting religious exercise.
• Interview clients, witnesses, and subject matter experts to uncover the essential facts necessary for robust advocacy.
• Analyze proposed laws and regulations to assess their impact on ministry operations and constitutional liberties.
• Represent clients in federal and state courts, as well as administrative hearings, advocating vigorously for religious freedom.
• Collaborate with ministry stakeholders to develop communication strategies that explain the legal stakes to diverse audiences.
• Evaluate the viability of cases and provide clear, strategic recommendations regarding litigation or settlement.
• Monitor the progression of cases through the discovery and trial phases, adjusting tactics as necessary to achieve the best outcome.
• Prepare and respond to interrogatories, requests for production, and other discovery tools to build a strong evidentiary record.
• Conduct depositions of adverse witnesses to test credibility and preserve testimony for trial.
• Testify or oversee the presentation of evidence at hearings and trials when necessary to protect client interests.
• Advise internal teams and external ministry partners on compliance matters that intersect with religious liberty protections.
• Coordinate with expert witnesses to develop trial themes that resonate with judges and juries on matters of conscience.

Requirements

You must possess a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and be an active member in good standing of at least one US state bar, capable of meeting admission requirements in a relevant jurisdiction within one year. You must have a minimum of two years of complex litigation experience handling cases that involve constitutional or statutory interpretation. You must be willing to travel domestically for case appearances, investigations, and client meetings as required. You must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance if the position requires access to sensitive ministry information. You must be committed to upholding the Statement of Faith of Alliance Defending Faith as a condition of employment. You must have the professional licensure and standing necessary to practice law in the United States without restriction. You must demonstrate a proven ability to manage multiple deadlines and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced legal environment.

Nice to have

You have prior trial experience arguing matters in court before a judge or jury. You have experience advising religious organizations or ministries on legal compliance and risk management. You are familiar with federal regulations impacting religious nonprofits and educational institutions. You have written appellate briefs or participated in appellate arguments in higher courts. You have experience working with digital religious content or online ministry platforms.

Practical notes

This role requires domestic travel to the Lansdowne, VA; Scottsdale, AZ; and Dallas, TX offices. The position is eligible for a security clearance verification. The role is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and reference verification.