Staff Attorney

Responsibilities

• Support ongoing litigation by conceiving, developing, and litigating new cases in support of strategic priorities
• Draft and edit legal briefs, pleadings, and research memos
• Present oral arguments and oversee discovery processes
• Work directly with clients and witnesses
• Contribute to the Institute’s strategic direction and research programs
• Speak on behalf of the Institute to academic audiences and represent the organization in the media
• Write content for various formats including blog posts, op-eds, and white papers
• Supervise legal fellows and interns
• Cultivate and manage relationships with partners inside and outside the Columbia University community

Requirements

• J.D. or equivalent degree
• Admission to the New York bar (or ability to gain admission quickly)
• 3 to 8 years of relevant legal experience
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience litigating cases involving freedom of speech, the press, government transparency, or new technology
• Familiarity with new technology and the specific threats it poses to free speech and privacy

About the Company

The Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University defends the freedoms of speech and the press in the digital age through strategic litigation, research, and public education. The Institute aims to promote an open and inclusive system of free expression that fosters creativity, accountability, and effective self-government.