Application Guide
How to Apply for Litigation Attorney
at Protect Democracy
🏢 About Protect Democracy
Protect Democracy is a nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to preventing authoritarianism and strengthening democratic institutions. Working here means joining a mission-driven team of legal experts and advocates committed to safeguarding the democratic process.
About This Role
As a Litigation Attorney, you will be at the forefront of election protection, providing legal support that directly impacts the integrity of elections. Your work on research, drafting, and discovery will help shape legal strategies that defend democracy.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve researching election law precedents, drafting a motion for a case, and collaborating with team members via video calls. You might also review discovery documents or prepare outlines for upcoming depositions, all while managing deadlines and contributing to the team's mission.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Protect Democracy Is Looking For
- Admitted to the bar with 3-5 years of litigation experience, ideally in election law or civil rights.
- Exceptional legal research and writing skills, with a portfolio of briefs or memos.
- Detail-oriented and organized, capable of managing multiple deadlines in fast-paced litigation.
- Passionate about democracy and familiar with current election law challenges.
📝 Tips for Applying to Protect Democracy
Tailor your resume to highlight any election law, voting rights, or nonprofit experience.
In your cover letter, mention specific cases or issues Protect Democracy has handled that resonate with you.
Provide writing samples that demonstrate your ability to draft persuasive legal arguments, especially in election or constitutional law.
Research the team's recent work and reference it in your application to show genuine interest.
If you have experience with discovery or expert witnesses, highlight it prominently.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Express your commitment to protecting democracy and why this mission drives you.', "Highlight your litigation skills and provide examples of complex cases you've worked on.", 'Mention your ability to work remotely and collaborate with a distributed team.', 'Show enthusiasm for contributing to election protection efforts.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review Protect Democracy's website and recent press releases to understand their current cases and campaigns.
- → Look into their litigation docket, especially any election-related cases they've filed or joined.
- → Read their blog or publications to understand their legal strategies and perspectives.
- → Check out their team page to learn about the backgrounds of current attorneys.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Protect Democracy or election protection.
- Failing to highlight specific litigation experience or relevant skills like discovery.
- Not proofreading your application materials for errors, as attention to detail is crucial for this role.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Protect Democracy!