About the Organization

Founded in 1932, Legal Aid DC has been a cornerstone in providing civil legal assistance to underserved communities in the District of Columbia. With a focus on consumer law, domestic violence and family law, housing, public benefits, immigration, and criminal record sealing, Legal Aid works to ensure equal access to justice.

Beyond individual representation, the organization engages in systemic reform efforts, identifying opportunities for law reform, public policy advocacy, and impact litigation based on client experiences.

Legal Aid DC is deeply committed to racial justice and equity, striving to reflect the diversity of the communities it serves, while empowering staff and clients to be effective agents of change.

For more information, visit: www.LegalAidDC.org

About the Position

The Director of Policy Advocacy will play a pivotal role in advancing Legal Aid DC’s systemic policy advocacy agenda. The position is part of the Systemic Advocacy and Law Reform Program, which includes the Barbara McDowell Appellate Advocacy Project and the Impact Litigation Project.

Reporting to the Legal Director of Systemic Advocacy and Law Reform, the Director will lead legislative and policy advocacy initiatives, ensuring they are community-centered and informed by the lived experiences of clients.

Responsibilities

Lead the Organization’s Legislative and Policy Advocacy:

• Develop and oversee the implementation of Legal Aid’s law reform agenda at the DC Council and relevant agencies.
• Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, legislative staff, and community stakeholders.
• Conduct legal and factual research, legislative and data analysis, and prepare testimony.
• Draft legislative proposals and coordinate advocacy campaigns.
• Ensure compliance with lobbying laws and reporting requirements.

Community Engagement:

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• Build the capacity of Legal Aid’s client community to advocate for policy change through training and outreach.
• Coordinate the Community Advisory Council (former clients engaged in advocacy).
• Partner with community-based organizations to advance shared advocacy priorities.

Supervision & Internal Capacity Building:

• Supervise Policy Program staff, including the Policy Manager.
• Mentor junior attorneys and other staff in policy advocacy.
• Review and provide feedback on legislative drafts, testimony, and advocacy materials.
• Collaborate with systemic advocacy team members on impact litigation and appellate opportunities.

Event Timeline

Format and Structure

• Employment Type: Full-time, Director-level role
• Reports To: Legal Director of Systemic Advocacy and Law Reform
• Practice Area: Policy Advocacy, Legislative Reform, Systemic Justice
• Evaluation Criteria: Strategic judgment, advocacy results, team leadership, and ability to advance racial equity

Location and Mode

Venue: Washington, DC – Legal Aid DC Offices
Mode: In-person (with possible hybrid arrangements)

Additional Highlights

• Salary Range:
  • 7 years relevant experience – $117,559
  • 10 years relevant experience – $123,533
  • Credit for all relevant prior experience provided
• Benefits Include:
  • Fully paid health insurance
  • Annual retirement match
  • 13 paid holidays, 25 annual leave days, and 15 sick days
  • Two salary increases annually (cost-of-living + step increase)
• Probation Period: 90 days for new hires

Eligibility

• Minimum of 7 years policy and legislative advocacy experience (DC Council experience preferred)
• J.D. strongly preferred; will consider MPP or equivalent relevant degree
• Demonstrated commitment to social, economic, and racial justice
• Supervisory experience with ability to mentor and manage teams
• Exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and advocacy skills
• Legislative drafting experience
• Multilingual ability in Spanish, Amharic, or other community languages preferred

FAQs

Q1: Is a law degree required?
A: J.D. is strongly preferred, but equivalent policy experience will be considered.

Q2: Is this position part of a union?
A: No, it is not part of the bargaining unit.

Q3: When should I apply?
A: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but no later than 29 August 2025.

Q4: What type of advocacy will I be doing?
A: Legislative advocacy at the DC Council, agency reform, and community-centered policy initiatives.

Q5: Are remote candidates eligible?
A: The role is based in Washington, DC, with some hybrid flexibility.

Important Links

Downloadables

Sample Cover Letter (PDF)

Contact

Apply through the online portal only – No emails or phone calls
Deadline: 29 August 2025

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