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First Amendment Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Deep knowledge of constitutional structure, separation of powers, federalism, individual rights, equal protection, due process, First Amendment freedoms, and judicial review. Ability to explain ...

Constitutional Law Tutor

Logan, UT · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of constitutional structure, separation of powers, federalism, individual rights, equal protection, due process, First Amendment freedoms, and judicial review. Ability to explain ...

Deep knowledge of constitutional structure, separation of powers, federalism, individual rights, equal protection, due process, First Amendment freedoms, and judicial review. Ability to explain ...

Constitutional Law Tutor

Provo, UT · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of constitutional structure, separation of powers, federalism, individual rights, equal protection, due process, First Amendment freedoms, and judicial review. Ability to explain ...

PS Clinical Research Coord

Murray, UT · On-site

$59K - $65K/yr

... first day of work. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient ... Tracks sponsor and investigator initiated amendment notifications and submits amended protocols ...

First Amendment information

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 are First Amendment lawyers?

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.
Infographic showing various First Amendment job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Attorney General - Civil Rights

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Salt Lake City, UT

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Assistant Attorney General - Civil Rights

 The Civil Rights Section of the Litigation Division of the Utah Attorney General's Office seeks an attorney to represent state employees, state agencies, school districts and universities in civil rights litigation.    

The Civil Rights Section defends civil rights litigation against state entities and employees.  These claims are primarily brought in federal court pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 1983 alleging violations of rights under the United States Constitution but may include pendant state-law tort claims and state constitutional claims. The successful applicant should anticipate litigating Eighth Amendment claims alleging inadequate medical care against corrections officers; Fourth Amendment claims alleging excessive force and illegal search and seizure against Utah Highway Patrol Troopers; First Amendment free speech, and Fourteenth Amendment claims against other state agencies and their employees. Attorneys in the Civil Rights Section also defend Universities and school districts in lawsuits alleging Title VI, Title IX, and ADA violations.

 This position requires excellent written and oral advocacy skills.  This position also requires experience and ability to immediately assume primary responsibility for litigating case and litigating 1983 claims in federal court is preferred. Membership in good standing in the Utah State Bar, or qualification for practice pending admission to the Utah Bar under Utah Supreme Court Rule of Professional Practice14-809, is required. Some travel is required as incumbents will need to represent their clients in civil litigation and other legal proceedings throughout the state.

Responsibilities

         Prepare cases for trial by conducting legal research, gathering evidence, prepare all pretrial documents (motions in limine, jury instructions, etc.), making opening statements, conduct direct and cross-examinations, and make closing arguments.

         Provide consultation, make recommendations, give appropriate advice to client agencies.

         Determine discovery needs, conduct depositions, complete written discovery; participate in strategy sessions to prepare case for trial, determine evidence to use and how to present.

         Write/draft motions, court briefs, correspondence, reports, memoranda, etc.

         Represent the State and client agencies in lawsuits and administrative proceedings.

         May be required to travel to various locations and stay overnight.