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Legal Journalism Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Proficiency in digital tools and platforms used in modern journalism. * Knowledge of media ethics and legal regulations. * Strong attention to detail and ability to work under pressure. * A passion ...

Legal Fellow

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Engaging policymakers, journalists, and the public on constitutional issues Things you will not do as a Legal Fellow: fill out timesheets, touch a document request, exchange hostile emails with ...

Legal Fellow

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Engaging policymakers, journalists, and the public on constitutional issues Things you will not do as a Legal Fellow: fill out timesheets, touch a document request, exchange hostile emails with ...

Legal Fellow

Washington, DC ยท Hybrid

$100K - $140K/yr

Engaging policymakers, journalists, and the public on constitutional issues Things you will not do as a Legal Fellow: fill out timesheets, touch a document request, exchange hostile emails with ...

You have the instincts of a journalist, the charm of a publicist, and a passion for advancing ... Pacific Legal Foundation is the nation's first and most successful public interest law firm ...

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Showing results 1-20

Legal Journalism information

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$29.5K

$66.5K

$105.5K

How much do legal journalism jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for legal journalism in the United States is $66,461.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $92,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Legal Journalism position, and why are they important?

To thrive in legal journalism, candidates need a strong background in reporting, analytical research skills, and a solid understanding of legal concepts, typically supported by a degree in journalism, law, or a related field. Familiarity with legal databases, research tools, and content management systems is often required. Outstanding writing ability, attention to detail, and a commitment to ethical reporting help professionals excel in this field. These skills are essential for accurately translating complex legal matters into clear, engaging content for the public.

What are some of the main challenges faced by legal journalists in their day-to-day work?

Legal journalists often encounter the challenge of interpreting and clearly communicating complex legal jargon and proceedings to a general audience without oversimplifying critical facts. They must keep up with rapidly changing laws, court rulings, and ongoing cases, which demands continuous research and networking with legal experts. Strict deadlines and the need for accuracy can create a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Building relationships with legal professionals and maintaining credibility are also crucial for accessing reliable information and exclusive stories. Being proactive and having a keen eye for emerging trends in the legal landscape greatly benefits those in this field.

What is a Legal Journalism job?

A Legal Journalism job involves reporting on legal news, court cases, legislation, and other law-related topics for media outlets. Legal journalists research court decisions, interview legal experts, and write articles or produce broadcasts that explain complex legal matters to the public. They may work for newspapers, magazines, online news sites, or television networks. Strong knowledge of the legal system and journalistic integrity are essential for this role.

What cities are hiring for Legal Journalism jobs? Cities with the most Legal Journalism job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Legal Journalism jobs? The most popular types of Legal Journalism jobs are:
What states have the most Legal Journalism jobs? States with the most job openings for Legal Journalism jobs include:
Infographic showing various Legal Journalism job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,461 per year, or $32 per hour.
Legal Affairs and Courts Reporter

Legal Affairs and Courts Reporter

Tribune Media

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$62K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Legal affairs and Courts reporter

The Hill, a division of Nexstar Media Group, is hiring a Legal Affairs and CourtsReporterto cover the federal courts and Justice Department. This position will be responsible for writing breaking news and analysis on cases before the Supreme Court and federal judiciary system. The reporter will also work with our team to deliver The Gavel, The Hill's weekly courts newsletter and streaming show.

About the role:

Our courts reporters are responsible for writing breaking news and enterprise pieces about the judiciary branch. We focus on the federal system but also pay attention to major cases in state courts. Our goal is to write about the courts through the prism of politics, to help our readers understand how the judicial branch affects the executive and legislative branches. We also want to show how the decisions coming out of the Supreme Court will affect our readers' lives, so that our breaking news pieces on the daily nitty-gritty also paint a larger picture of how policy is shaped over years.

A successful reporter in this role will be writing a mix of spot stories as well as longer feature stories. An ability to collaborate and communicate with other members of the courts team and our wider newsroom is a priority.

Responsibilities include:

-Writing breaking news and larger enterprise stories on federal court decisions and filings and Supreme Court rulings in ways that increases The Hill's reach and readership.

-Writing The Gavel, our weekly courts newsletter, and appearing on The Gavel's streaming show.

-Helping to keep track of all the cases moving through the courts so that The Hill is prepared when decisions are handed down.

Skills and qualifications:

A degree in journalism or a related field is required, as is previous newsroom experience. Courts coverage is a plus, but not required.

Candidates should have good instincts for understanding what readers want and be able to produce error-free, clean journalism on a tight timetable. Basic familiarity with Google Trends, SEO skills and real-time analytics are a plus.

To apply: Please upload your materials with as much of the following as possible: your updated resume, a brief cover letter explaining your interest and fit for the position, and your portfolio/clips or links to a few samples of your work. Completing these steps will ensure that you receive the highest consideration.

About The Hill

Established in 1994, The Hill is the country's definitive digital source for non-partisan political news and information. Inside the Beltway, it's known as an essential, agenda-setting read for lawmakers and influencers. Beyond the Capitol, The Hill's trusted content is shared more often on social media than any other political news brand in America.

Our properties include TheHill.com, reaching a monthly audience of 41M; Hill.TV, the largest independent video platform within the Beltway with 1.4B annual views; The Hill's print edition, one of the most influential sources for law and policy makers; Elevate Studios, creating breakthrough branded content offerings for leading marketers; and The Hill Events, which hosted 70 virtual events last year, featuring 92 Members of Congress and 88 industry leaders in meaningful policy discussions.

Any person in this position will be represented by the Washington-Baltimore News Guild, Communications Workers of America Local 32035, AFL-CIO.

Compensation Range: $62,500 - $70,000 salaried based upon experience

Benefits: Our comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees includes, but not limited to, medical (with multiple plan options), dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) with company matching contributions, Paid Parental leave, life insurance and more.Part time employees are eligible for 401(k) and any local/state leave plans. Union positions are subject to the benefits outlined in their Collective Bargaining Agreement.

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