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First Amendment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zymtronix Catalytic Systems Inc

NY · On-site

$84 - $237.30/hr

Clinical Professor & Director, First Amendment Clinic - Cornell Law School The position opens July 2027 and is full‑time (100% FTE) and will be based in Ithaca, New York. Cornell Law School ...

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Trial & Litigation Attorney

Oakland, CA · On-site

$190K - $300K/yr

Bonus points if you have experience representing public entities, eminent domain, land use litigation, or constitutional law (takings, §1983, First Amendment). What you'll do: * Lead and second ...

Equiliem

Attorney - Civil Rights

Washington, DC · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Experience involving First Amendment issues is highly desirable. Job Responsibilities * Review complaints, allegations, and supporting documentation to determine appropriate case disposition.

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How much do first amendment jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for first amendment in the United States is $118,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $145,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between First Amendment vs Paralegal?

AspectFirst AmendmentParalegal
Required CredentialsNone; constitutional knowledge beneficialAssociate's degree or paralegal certification
Work EnvironmentLegal settings, government, advocacy groupsLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies
Industry UsageLegal, government, advocacyLegal support, research, document preparation

The First Amendment refers to constitutional rights protecting free speech, religion, and assembly, often discussed in legal and advocacy contexts. A paralegal is a legal support professional assisting attorneys with research, documentation, and case preparation. While both operate within the legal industry, the First Amendment is a constitutional concept, whereas a paralegal is a job role supporting legal processes.

What are some common challenges faced by First Amendment lawyers when handling cases involving freedom of speech?

First Amendment lawyers often navigate complex legal and ethical challenges, particularly when balancing the right to free speech with other societal interests such as public safety, national security, or the prevention of hate speech. They must stay current with evolving jurisprudence, as court decisions frequently refine the boundaries of protected speech. Additionally, these attorneys regularly collaborate with clients, courts, and sometimes advocacy organizations to build persuasive arguments while managing intense public scrutiny. The work can involve both litigation and advisory roles, requiring strong research, writing, and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Amendment lawyer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Amendment lawyer, you need expertise in constitutional law, strong research and writing abilities, and a Juris Doctor degree with bar admission. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and experience with court filing systems are typically required. Excellent oral advocacy, analytical thinking, and negotiation skills help set top performers apart in this field. These qualifications are essential for effectively defending clients’ rights and navigating the complex legal landscape of free speech and related issues.

What is a First Amendment lawyer?

First Amendment lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in issues related to the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, which protects freedoms such as speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition. They represent clients in cases involving free speech rights, freedom of religion, and censorship, often defending individuals, journalists, organizations, or media outlets. These lawyers may work in private practice, for nonprofit organizations, or as part of advocacy groups, and they play a crucial role in upholding constitutional liberties.
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First Amendment jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Amendment job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,258 per year, or $56.9 per hour.

Clinical Professor & Director, First Amendment Clinic - Cornell Law School

Zymtronix Catalytic Systems Inc

NY • On-site

$84 - $237.30/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Clinical Professor & Director, First Amendment Clinic - Cornell Law School

The position opens July 2027 and is full‑time (100% FTE) and will be based in Ithaca, New York.

Cornell Law School, founded in 1887, is a leading law school with a strong focus on experiential learning. The First Amendment Clinic, launched in 2018, teaches students the principles of free speech while vigorously defending clients’ First Amendment rights.

Responsibilities
  • Teach or co‑teach the clinic, imparting essential knowledge of First Amendment doctrine and helping students and fellows develop litigation skills, including legal writing, advocacy, and client relations.
  • Shape the focus of cases on the clinic docket in collaboration with the faculty steering committee and develop relationships with law firms, advocacy organizations, and other First Amendment clinics to generate new, varied, and impactful cases.
  • Organize programming to bring free‑speech issues to the broader law‑school and university communities, sensitizing stakeholders to the role of free speech in a representative democracy.
  • Oversee relationships with outside funders, including preparing periodic reports in accordance with funder requirements and maintaining existing relationships while seeking to grow the clinic’s support base.
  • Manage the clinic’s financial resources, creating, monitoring, and reporting on the budget in collaboration with the Clinical Programs administrative manager.
Qualifications
  • JD and admission to the New York bar (or eligibility for admission on motion to the New York bar).
  • A minimum of five years of relevant experience, excellent pedagogical and client‑management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
  • Prior significant litigation experience and, preferably, clinical teaching experience.
  • A track record of forming positive professional relationships.
Pay Range

$84,000–$237,300

EEO Statement

Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world‑class education and career opportunities. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, race, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related conditions, age, creed, religion, disability, criminal history, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, domestic‑violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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