Description:

A Montana-Based Nonprofit Law Firm seeks a creative and experienced litigator to join our team as the incoming Litigation Director (to overlap with our outgoing Litigation Director). In this role, you will help shape A Montana-Based Nonprofit Law Firm's litigation strategy, oversee a team of between three and six staff attorneys and legal fellows, manage and direct day-today litigation tasks, and collaborate closely with the Executive Director.

Ideal candidates have experience with brief writing, complaint development, discovery, building client relationships, and litigating claims for declaratory and injunctive relief. A generalist or constitutional background is particularly welcome, but not required. Essential qualities include the ability to remain calm under pressure, think innovatively and strategically to solve legal problems, work collaboratively with others, train and supervise other attorneys, and give and receive feedback with grace.

The position is based in Helena, Montana, reports to the Executive Director, and forms part of the leadership team.

Responsibilities & Opportunities:
  • Litigation Management: Oversee a docket of up to 15 active cases in state and federal court; supervise a team of three to six staff attorneys; manage and develop case-specific litigation strategies and priorities; advocate in court and through day-to-day litigation, including drafting pleadings, motions, briefs, and discovery; and collaborate regularly with the Executive Director.
  • Legal Advocacy & Leadership: Lead staff attorneys in articulating compelling legal arguments and narratives in briefs, memos, press releases, and other documents related to new projects and ongoing litigation; collaborate with the leadership team to formulate a vision for pursuing work that holds the powerful accountable, serves the public interest, and meets community needs through cases and projects that fit meaningfully in an overall legal strategy.
  • Team Management & Supervision: Manage and mentor A Montana-Based Nonprofit Law Firm's growing team of attorneys, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, learning, and leadership; provide guidance and support to ensure the highest quality legal work and professional growth for all team members. In collaboration with the Operations Director, develop department policies and procedures to improve internal processes, manage relationships internally and externally. Develop litigation talent.
  • Partnership Development: Cultivate strategic partnerships with other organizations, community groups, and legal experts. Engage stakeholders, including the press and donors, to build coalitions, support grassroots initiatives, and support A Montana-Based Nonprofit Law Firm's mission. Represent A Montana-Based Nonprofit Law Firm at conferences, in media, and at local gatherings and events.

Experience & Qualifications:
  • JD from an accredited law school; active and in good standing membership with the Montana bar or the ability to be admitted in Montana.
  • Exceptional writing ability.
  • Roughly 5+ years of relevant litigation experience, with a demonstrated track record of effective advocacy in federal and state court proceedings.
  • Excellent leadership abilities, including experience mentoring attorneys.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex legal concepts.
  • Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for social justice and accountability.
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of work.