Application Guide

How to Apply for REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR LEGAL SERVICES

at Rails to Trails Conservancy

🏢 About Rails to Trails Conservancy

Rails to Trails Conservancy is a national nonprofit dedicated to creating a network of multiuse trails across the U.S., transforming former rail corridors into public spaces that promote health, equity, and environmental sustainability. Their work directly empowers communities by providing accessible, car-free routes for biking, walking, and recreation, making them a unique leader in the active transportation and conservation movements.

About This Role

This contract role involves defending rail-trail conversions from legal challenges, advising on federal regulations like railbanking, and managing a network of pro bono attorneys. You'll also provide corporate counsel to a mission-driven nonprofit, making your work directly impactful in preserving and expanding public trail access nationwide.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start by reviewing a new legal threat to a trail in the Midwest, then draft a strategy memo for RTC's policy team. Midday, you could advise on a contract for a trail easement or coordinate with a pro bono attorney on a pending motion. Afternoons often involve researching federal regulations or preparing for an administrative hearing, wrapping up with a call to update stakeholders on case developments.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Rails to Trails Conservancy Is Looking For

  • A seasoned litigator or administrative advocate with 7+ years of experience in federal courts and agencies, ready to handle complex cases defending trail conversions.
  • Licensed to practice law in DC, with a strong grasp of nonprofit governance and contract review, ideally with prior in-house or pro bono experience.
  • Keen interest in federal railroad regulations and trail law, even if not an expert—willingness to dive into this niche area is key.
  • A collaborative leader who can build and coordinate a network of pro bono lawyers, and communicate effectively with policy staff and stakeholders.

📝 Tips for Applying to Rails to Trails Conservancy

1

Tailor your cover letter to highlight specific litigation or administrative advocacy experience in federal courts, not just general legal work.

2

Mention any familiarity with the National Trails System Act or railbanking, even if limited—show eagerness to learn this specialized area.

3

Emphasize nonprofit or mission-driven legal experience, especially corporate governance and contract review, to align with RTC's structure.

4

Include examples of managing or coordinating pro bono networks or volunteer attorneys, demonstrating leadership and collaboration.

5

Research RTC's recent trail defense cases or policy wins and reference them in your application to show genuine interest.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Passion for public access to trails and the mission of creating connected, sustainable communities.', 'Specific examples of federal litigation or administrative advocacy that relate to land use, transportation, or environmental law.', 'Experience advising nonprofits on governance and contracts, with a focus on risk management and mission alignment.', 'Ability to work independently on contract while integrating with a small, collaborative policy team.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review RTC's TrailNation™ projects and recent trail openings to understand their impact and priorities.
  • → Read about the National Trails System Act and key court cases like Preseault v. ICC that shaped railbanking law.
  • → Look into RTC's policy advocacy on trail funding and rail corridor preservation at the federal level.
  • → Check RTC's annual report or 990 to understand their funding sources and governance structure.
Visit Rails to Trails Conservancy's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach defending a rail-trail conversion against a property rights lawsuit in federal court?
2 Describe your experience with administrative rulemaking or advocacy before agencies like the Surface Transportation Board.
3 How would you build and manage a pro bono attorney network for litigation support?
4 Walk us through your process for reviewing a complex contract for a nonprofit client.
5 What is your understanding of the railbanking process and its legal challenges?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention trails, railbanking, or RTC's specific mission.
  • Overlooking the contract nature of the role—candidates who treat it as a full-time permanent position may seem misaligned.
  • Failing to address the DC bar requirement or assuming remote work without discussion.

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Rails to Trails Conservancy!

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