Application Guide

How to Apply for Tech Counsel (AI for Democracy Action Lab)

at Protect Democracy

🏢 About Protect Democracy

Protect Democracy is a nonpartisan nonprofit uniquely focused on preventing authoritarianism in the US. They combine legal expertise with strategic communications and technology policy to defend democratic institutions. Working here means joining a mission-driven team that tackles cutting-edge threats to democracy, including the misuse of AI.

About This Role

As Tech Counsel for the AI for Democracy Action Lab, you'll develop and advance legal strategies at the intersection of AI and democracy, including impact litigation and integrated advocacy. You'll build Protect Democracy's expertise on AI law through research, writing, and public engagement, collaborating closely with the communications team. This role directly shapes how AI regulation and litigation protect democratic processes.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing a proposed AI regulation and drafting a legal memo on its impact on elections, then collaborating with the communications team to craft a press statement. You could also meet with coalition partners to strategize on an upcoming impact litigation case, followed by writing a blog post explaining the legal issues to the public.

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🎯 Who Protect Democracy Is Looking For

  • A lawyer with 4+ years (or 10+ for senior) of legal experience, including exposure to AI, emerging tech, or related fields like privacy, civil rights, or election law.
  • Deep understanding of AI governance, algorithmic accountability, and the legal implications of AI in elections and public discourse.
  • Exceptional analytical and writing skills, able to translate complex technical and legal questions for policymakers, journalists, and the public.
  • Active bar membership in good standing in your state of residence, with a commitment to nonpartisan, pro-democracy advocacy.

📝 Tips for Applying to Protect Democracy

1

Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with AI, technology law, or democracy-related litigation, even if tangential.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your legal experience to Protect Democracy's mission and the specific challenges of AI in democracy.

3

Include a writing sample that demonstrates your ability to explain complex legal or technical issues to a non-expert audience.

4

Research Protect Democracy's current AI-related projects (e.g., briefs, reports) and reference them in your application to show genuine interest.

5

If you have experience with communications campaigns or working with press teams, highlight that—this role collaborates closely with communications.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your understanding of the intersection of AI and democracy, and why it's a critical threat or opportunity.", "Specific examples of how your legal expertise can advance Protect Democracy's mission through litigation or advocacy.", 'Your ability to translate complex AI legal issues for diverse audiences (courts, media, policymakers).', "Your commitment to nonpartisan, pro-democracy work and how your values align with Protect Democracy's approach."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review Protect Democracy's recent publications and litigation on AI, such as their work on deepfakes and election integrity.
  • → Read their 'AI for Democracy Action Lab' page to understand the lab's specific goals and projects.
  • → Familiarize yourself with key AI legal frameworks (e.g., EU AI Act, US executive orders, state laws) and pending cases.
  • → Understand Protect Democracy's nonpartisan approach and how they engage with both sides of the political spectrum.
Visit Protect Democracy's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach a case involving AI-generated disinformation in an election?
2 What are the key legal challenges in regulating AI for democratic processes (e.g., deepfakes, algorithmic bias)?
3 Describe a time you had to explain a complex legal or technical concept to a non-lawyer audience.
4 How do you see the role of impact litigation vs. advocacy in shaping AI policy?
5 What current AI regulation (or lack thereof) do you think most threatens democracy, and why?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application that doesn't reference Protect Democracy's specific mission or AI work.
  • Overemphasizing partisan politics—Protect Democracy is nonpartisan, so focus on democracy protection, not party affiliation.
  • Neglecting to show how you can translate legal expertise for non-lawyer audiences, a key requirement.

📅 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 Protect Democracy!

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