Legal Counsel, Church & Ministry Alliance
The Legal Counsel for the Church & Ministry Alliance (CMA) at Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) serves as a vital resource for faith-based ministries and leaders, offering daily operational and legal support to advance their religious missions. Reporting to the Deputy Director of the CMA Legal Program Team, this role involves reviewing governing documents, handbooks, policies, and contracts, as well as providing direct consultation on legal rights and responsibilities. Additionally, the position includes engaging in public advocacy through speaking, blogging, and media appearances at ADF's request.
Key responsibilities encompass delivering day-to-day legal assistance to ministries, formulating legal advice, resources, policies, and best practices, and aiding in the adoption and consistent application of these policies. The role also involves advising ministries on threats to religious liberty and educating them through various platforms such as speaking engagements, publications, webinars, and web-based resources. Building and maintaining relationships with churches across different evangelical and denominational spectrums is essential, as is developing a comprehensive knowledge base related to churches, ministry organizations, and Christian schools.
Candidates should possess a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and an active license to practice law in at least one U.S. state, with the capability to meet admission requirements in the relevant jurisdiction within one year. A bachelor's degree is also required. Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, WordPerfect, and Westlaw, are necessary. The role demands strong analytical, relational, project management, and public speaking skills.
While specific compensation details are not disclosed, Alliance Defending Freedom offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including 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. The organization emphasizes work-life balance with paid time off and 12 paid holidays each year.
Alliance Defending Freedom is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting religious freedom, free speech, the sanctity of life, marriage and family, and parental rights. The CMA Legal Program Team plays a crucial role in equipping and empowering gospel-centered churches and ministries to boldly live out their missions and transform culture with the truth.