Legal Director Jobs

ACLU of Michigan

Location:
United States, Detroit, Michigan

Category:
Legal

Contract Type:
Employment contract

Salary:

150000.00 USD / Year

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Job Description:

The Legal Director will lead the ACLU of Michigan's legal program, defending and expanding civil liberties and civil rights in Michigan. The role involves strategic leadership, complex litigation oversight, team management, and internal/external collaboration as part of an integrated advocacy model.

Job Responsibility:

Champion a bold legal vision and strategic agenda
Oversee the ACLU of Michigan’s entire docket (25-50 active cases) in federal and state court
Collaborate to develop alternative legal pathways where litigation is not viable
Authorize ACLU of Michigan involvement in litigation
Ensure excellence of the legal team’s work
Recruit, supervise, and develop the legal team
Champion a healthy and equitable workplace
Oversee internship and externship programs
Ensure equitable and effective legal operations
Steward legal resources and manage the legal department budget
Serve as a member of the Senior Leadership team
Chair the state lawyers committee
Collaborate across the organization to support advocacy campaigns
Develop and sustain partnerships with the national ACLU network and other partners
Represent the ACLU of Michigan in public speaking, media, and fundraising events

Requirements:

J.D. and membership in the State Bar of Michigan (or willing and able to sit or waive into the bar)
Deep grounding in constitutional law and civil liberties
Legal research, writing, and analytical skills
Demonstrated commitment to defending civil rights
Ability to set vision and strategy for legal work
Experience leading at least one complex lawsuit from beginning to end
Experience in significant federal and state court litigation (constitutional, civil rights, or appellate)
Likely 7+ years of litigation experience
Demonstrated leadership and ability to motivate staff
Proven ability to supervise and develop staff
High emotional intelligence and communication skills
Superb organizational skills with attention to detail
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB)
Experience in nonprofit, advocacy, or community-based settings is highly valued
Experience and knowledge of Michigan is a plus

Nice to have:

Experience and knowledge of Michigan
Experience in nonprofit, advocacy, or community-based settings

What we offer:

Health, vision, and dental insurance
401(k)-retirement plan with matching contributions
Individual professional development budget
Employee assistance program
Access to nationwide employee resource groups

Additional Information:

Job Posted:
December 05, 2025

Employment Type:

Fulltime

Work Type:

On-site work

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Legal Director