Organizational overview

Democracy Defenders Action is a 501(c)(4) organization that is part of a broader network working to defend democracy. The affiliated organizations include a c3, c4, a separately structured PAC, and The Contrarian. Together, they focus on strategic legal and public-facing work to counter authoritarianism, uphold the rule of law, protect fair and free elections, and confront corruption.

Role purpose

The litigation paralegal will be a key support resource for the legal team, helping ensure cases centered on democracy, election integrity, and the rule of law move forward smoothly and effectively. Because the caseload is complex and substantial, this position requires paralegal certification.

Responsibilities

• Get pleadings, motions, and other court documents ready and file them electronically in line with court requirements, filing deadlines, and court-specific procedures.
• Review, proofread, verify citations, and format briefs, motions, and related filing materials.
• Follow local court rules and individual judges’ procedures to maintain filing compliance.
• Prepare supporting administrative documents such as summonses, subpoenas, pro hac vice motions, and service-related filings.
• Organize and maintain case files and matter dockets using Clio and PACER.
• Keep engagement letters, retainers, invoices, and other case administration records up to date.
• Manage litigation calendars and internal tracking systems for active matters.
• Track attorney admissions, certificates of good standing, and other required filing items.
• Maintain client and co-counsel mailing lists and distribution groups.
• Help coordinate and schedule team meetings and litigation-related events.
• Handle additional assignments and special projects as needed.

Qualifications

• Paralegal certification is required.
• At least 3 years of experience as a legal assistant or litigation paralegal.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with a clear, concise style.
• Excellent editing and drafting ability.
• Ability to evaluate and summarize factual material accurately.
• Strong planning and organizational habits, including the ability to juggle priorities and meet deadlines.
• Self-directed work style with a proactive approach to solving problems and improving processes.
• Comfort using standard office tools, including Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to quickly learn databases, case management platforms, and program management tools; experience with PACER, ECF, and relational case databases is an advantage.
• Availability for occasional evening and weekend work.

Role details and compensation

This is a full-time, non-exempt remote role that can be performed from any U.S. state. Optional office space is available in Washington, DC.

The position sits within the Litigation department and reports to the Director of Litigation. It primarily supports Democracy Defenders Action and Democracy Defenders Fund.

Compensation is set between $70,000 and $90,000 per year, depending on experience.

Benefits

The organization offers a broad benefits package that includes more than 20 days of paid time off, 12 holidays, health insurance covered at 100% for the employee and 50% for family coverage, a 401(k) with employer match, technology and home-office stipends, access to coworking space, and regular team-building activities.

Additional information

Applicants who are uncertain about whether they are the right fit are encouraged to apply and explain why they are a strong candidate. Applications are reviewed by a person, and candidates with transferable skills, non-traditional career paths, or who do not meet every listed qualification are welcome to apply.

Equal opportunity statement

Democracy Defenders Action is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.

Responsibilities

• Get pleadings, motions, and other court documents ready and file them electronically in line with court requirements, filing deadlines, and court-specific procedures.
• Review, proofread, verify citations, and format briefs, motions, and related filing materials.
• Follow local court rules and individual judges’ procedures to maintain filing compliance.
• Prepare supporting administrative documents such as summonses, subpoenas, pro hac vice motions, and service-related filings.
• Organize and maintain case files and matter dockets using Clio and PACER.
• Keep engagement letters, retainers, invoices, and other case administration records up to date.
• Manage litigation calendars and internal tracking systems for active matters.
• Track attorney admissions, certificates of good standing, and other required filing items.
• Maintain client and co-counsel mailing lists and distribution groups.
• Help coordinate and schedule team meetings and litigation-related events.
• Handle additional assignments and special projects as needed.

Requirements

• Paralegal certification is required.
• At least 3 years of experience as a legal assistant or litigation paralegal.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with a clear, concise style.
• Excellent editing and drafting ability.
• Ability to evaluate and summarize factual material accurately.
• Strong planning and organizational habits, including the ability to juggle priorities and meet deadlines.
• Self-directed work style with a proactive approach to solving problems and improving processes.
• Comfort using standard office tools, including Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to quickly learn databases, case management platforms, and program management tools; experience with PACER, ECF, and relational case databases is an advantage.
• Availability for occasional evening and weekend work.

Perks & benefits

• More than 20 days of paid time off.
• 12 paid holidays.
• Health insurance paid fully for the employee and 50% for family coverage.
• 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Technology stipend and home-office stipend.
• Access to coworking space.
• Regular team-building opportunities.
• Optional office space in Washington, DC.