Job Description

Established in 1970, the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press (Reporters Committee) provides pro bono legal representation, amicus curiae support, and other legal resources to protect First Amendment freedoms and the newsgathering rights of journalists. Reporters Committee serves news organizations, reporters, documentary filmmakers, media lawyers, and many more who use its online resources.

The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press is hiring a mid-level attorney to take a lead role in the Reporters Committee’s vibrant amicus brief practice. The Reporters Committee regularly submits amicus briefs in state, federal, and U.S. Supreme Court cases where the news media brings an important perspective. Known for building broad coalitions of major news and transparency organizations, the Reporters Committee is a voice for the right to freely gather and disseminate information in the public interest.

This full-time position reports to the Vice President of Legal Programs.

Starting salary, based on experience, will range from $125,500 - $136,200 for an attorney based in Washington, D.C. The deadline to apply is May 22, 2026.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Drafting amicus briefs and supervising the work of legal fellows on amicus briefs in cases presenting important newsgathering and First Amendment issues;
• Working with local and outside counsel in amicus matters;
• Coordinating with coalitions of media and press freedom organizations on amicus matters;
• Participating in oral argument in appropriate amicus matters;
• Conducting trainings for journalists and news organizations on media law topics.

Qualifications

• Admitted to practice law in Washington, D.C. or eligible for admission to practice law in Washington, D.C.;
• A minimum of 5 years of litigation and advising experience, with substantial experience representing journalists and other media clients in matters involving newsgathering, access to public records, access to judicial records, defamation, and other media law and First Amendment issues. Judicial clerkships may qualify for up to a year of experience;
• A passion for protecting press freedom and a strong desire to support the work of journalists across the country;
• Self-directed with the ability to handle independently all aspects of litigation, including drafting briefs and motions, formulating strategy, and particular experience in appellate litigation;
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to supervise—or demonstrated experience successfully managing—litigation matters and the work of less-experienced attorneys;
• Outstanding legal research skills, and excellent written communication skills;
• Excellent public speaking and oral communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively and effectively with a broad range of clients and stakeholders;
• Sound judgment and the highest level of professional integrity.

Additional Information

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and operate computer equipment. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Compensation: RCFP is committed to offering competitive pay and generous benefits, including group medical insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, retirement benefits, health-reimbursement accounts, and paid family leave. The salary range for this position is $125,500 - $136,200.

How to apply: Submit a resume and cover letter. NOTE: Please submit materials in one PDF file. Only complete applications will advance in the hiring process.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

RCFP Is an Equal Opportunity Employer. At the Reporters Committee, we celebrate the diversity of our employees and our leadership. RCFP is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.