Senior Legal Strategist

About the position

Public Citizen's Climate Program is seeking a Senior Legal Strategist to establish legal accountability for the fossil fuel industry through criminal prosecution. This role involves developing legal strategies, managing research projects, and collaborating with local and state prosecutors to hold corporations accountable for their role in the climate crisis. The position aims to create impactful legal frameworks and support networks to advance climate criminal prosecutions.

Responsibilities

• Develop legal strategies to hold fossil fuel companies accountable for wrongdoing.
• Conceptualize, develop, and execute research on cutting-edge legal questions in numerous jurisdictions.
• Develop the factual records to support new legal theories.
• Write legal memoranda, law review articles, and other formats based on research findings.
• Maintain communication with district attorney and attorney general offices.
• Support state and local prosecutors in their research priorities.
• Develop relationships with attorneys and relevant NGOs and law firms.
• Participate in events at law schools to promote legal accountability ideas.
• Conceive and produce written materials, including op-eds and social media content.
• Supervise legal interns and volunteer lawyers involved in criminal accountability work.
• Organize events and meetings to advance the program's objectives.

Requirements

• J.D. required.
• 6-15 years of experience as a prosecutor, criminal defense attorney, or in a relevant strategic litigation role.
• Outstanding strategic thinking and oral and written communication abilities.
• High energy, enthusiasm, persistence, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and balance multiple priorities under pressure.
• Creative and collaborative spirit.
• Knowledge of climate accountability is a plus, but eagerness to learn is required.
• Strong commitment to the cause and understanding of its urgency.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge of climate accountability space is a plus.

Benefits

• Salary range: $101,861 - $148,585.
• Great medical and dental coverage, 100% paid by Public Citizen, including full coverage for children.
• Three weeks paid vacation for new employees, plus five personal days.
• 401K plan with a 5% contribution from Public Citizen after one year of employment.
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of employment.
• Sabbatical after 10 years of employment.
• Student loan reimbursement program.