Legal Counsel, Christian Ministries

Make a difference with us! At Alliance Defending Freedom, we believe God has brought you here for His purpose—to stand for truth and defend the God-given right to live and speak it. Together, we protect religious freedom, free speech, the sanctity of life, marriage and family, and parental rights. Review our Statement of Faith to ensure we’re a fit for you.

Locations: Lansdowne, VA; Scottsdale, AZ 

Team Overview

Alliance Defending Freedom is looking for a highly skilled Legal Counsel to join the Center for Christian Ministries team in our Lansdowne, VA or Scottsdale, AZ office. You will be responsible for evaluating and leading litigation matters that advance and defend the constitutionally protected rights of churches, Christian ministries, and religious schools under the First Amendment. In this role, you will report to the Senior Counsel, Director of the Center for Christian Ministries. As Legal Counsel, your primary responsibility will be to support the mission by helping lead strategic litigation efforts with minimal oversight from senior attorneys, ensuring the continued protection of religious liberty.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research and interview clients and witnesses


• Prepare and respond to written discovery; conduct and defend depositions


• Develop strategy, arguments, and testimony in preparation for presentation of cases.


• Represent clients in court, and before quasi-judicial or administrative agencies of government; interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and businesses


• Confer with colleagues to establish and verify basis for legal proceedings


• Advise allied attorneys on legal issues within areas of competence

Minimum Qualifications

• J.D., active license in at least one US state bar, and capable of meeting admission requirements in relevant jurisdiction within one year


• 2+ years of complex litigation experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Trial experience

Pay & Benefits

At Alliance Defending Freedom, we offer a competitive compensation and benefits package to support your well-being and growth. While we do not disclose specific salary ranges, our compensation is competitive with top non-profit law firms. Our benefits include 100% covered medical and dental insurance, medical and dependent care reimbursement, paid disability, long-term care, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan with a 4% company match. We prioritize work-life balance with paid time off and 12 paid holidays each year.

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