Democracy Defenders Action

Role Description The paralegal provides critical support to the attorneys on our litigation team, ensuring our cases in defense of democracy, election integrity, and the rule of law are efficient and successful. Due to the complexity and volume of our cases, a paralegal certification is required for this role. To best protect, strengthen, and rebuild our democracy, it is important that DDA’s staff reflects the diversity of backgrounds and experiences represented in the democracy we seek to defend. Applicants of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Responsibilities - Prepare and electronically file pleadings, motions, and other case documents in compliance with court rules, deadlines, and jurisdiction-specific procedures. - Proofread, cite-check, and format briefs, motions, and other court filings. - Ensure compliance with local rules and judges’ procedures. - Draft and prepare administrative filings, e.g. summons, subpoenas, pro hac vice motions, service of process, etc. - Manage and organize all case files and case dockets on Clio, via PACER. - Maintain engagement letters, retainers, invoices, and other case administration documents. - Maintain litigation calendars and internal trackers for all active litigation matters. - Track and file attorney admissions, certificates of good standing, and other necessary filings. - Manage client and co-counsel listservs. - Provide support for and schedule Litigation team events and meetings. - Other duties and special projects as assigned. Qualifications - Paralegal Certification - 3+ years of relevant experience as a Legal Assistant or Litigation Paralegal - Clear and concise written and verbal communication - Strong writing and editing skills - Demonstrated ability to review and synthesize factual information - Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to multi-task and prioritize work to ensure timely completion - Self-starter who completes deliverables as planned while proactively seeking solutions and improvements to challenges - Proficiency in all basic office software (Google and Microsoft suites) - High degree of proficiency in learning databases, program management software, and other tools; knowledge of PACER, ECF, and relational case management databases is a plus - Available for occasional night and weekend work Requirements - This is a remote position that may be performed from any state in the U.S. - The Paralegal sits in our Litigation department and reports to the Director of Litigation. - This role primarily supports Democracy Defenders Action and Democracy Defenders Fund. - The salary range for this position is $70,000 - $90,000, commensurate with experience. Benefits - Comprehensive benefits package including 20+ days of PTO - 12 holidays - Health insurance (100% paid for employee and 50% paid for family) - 401K with match - Tech and home office stipends - Coworking space access - Recurring teambuilding opportunities Company Description Democracy Defenders Action, a 501(c)(4) organization, is a leader in the fight against authoritarianism, working strategically in the courts and court of public opinion to restore American democracy by: upholding the rule of law, safeguarding free and fair elections, and fighting corruption.

Role Description The Accountant manages and streamlines the financial operations across the Democracy Defenders family of organizations, overseeing and often performing day-to-day accounting functions, ensuring rigorous financial compliance, maintaining robust internal controls, and optimizing our financial tech stack to support our mission effectively. To best protect, strengthen, and rebuild our democracy, it is critical that DDA’s staff reflects the diversity of backgrounds and experiences represented in the democracy we seek to defend. Applicants of all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Responsibilities - 20 hours per week Accountant contractor - This is an hourly contractor role - Financial Processes and Reconciliations: - Define and own a comprehensive month-end and year-end close process, performing most of the monthly account reconciliations. - Manage and review the account reconciliations and other work done by our part-time contracted bookkeeper. - Internal Controls and Systems Management: - Help develop and maintain effective accounting procedures and internal controls. - Manage and upgrade processes and systems for expense reimbursement and credit cards (Ramp) and Accounts Payable (Bill.com). - Cash Flow: - Actively manage daily cash flow and oversee inter-company cost-sharing structures. - Compliance Tracking and Document Control: - Ensure strict compliance with GAAP accrual-based accounting, and other relevant financial regulations. - Record and track vendor agreements. - Ensure compliance with sales tax requirements with the assistance of an outside consultant. - Grant & Donation Management: - Record and track restricted donations, including maintaining comprehensive backup documentation and managing grant agreements. - Audit & Tax: - Take the lead role in preparing for and guiding the organization through the annual financial audit and preparation of the Federal Forms 990 and various state filings. - Additional tasks and special projects as directed. - Full time Accountant and Bookkeeper: - The accountant role can be expanded to a 40 hour per week exempt full time employee position by performing all bookkeeping responsibilities, which are currently performed by another 20 hour per week contractor. Qualifications - Minimum bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. - 6-10 years of accounting experience. - CPA preferred but not required. - Proven accounting experience, with strong proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets and hands-on experience using QuickBooks Online. - Proficiency in accrual-based GAAP accounting required. - Preference for candidates with nonprofit accounting experience. - Preference for demonstrated experience with restricted grant management and tracking restricted funds. - Preference for demonstrated experience managing inter-company cost-sharing. - Familiarity assessing and leveraging accounting tech tools (ex: Ramp, Bill.com), integrations, and automation workflows. - Highly organized, with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to maintain meticulous documentation. - Unwavering commitment to defeating election sabotage and denial, fighting autocracy, and building a resilient democracy; Experience (professional, volunteer, or otherwise) advancing democracy, election integrity, and the rule of law. - Commitment to diversity and inclusivity and an ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. Role and Compensation Details - This is a remote position that may be performed from any state in the U.S. We offer optional access to office space in Washington, DC. - The Accountant sits in our Finance department and reports to the Director of Finance. - This role supports Democracy Defenders Action c4, Democracy Defenders Fund c3, and Democracy Defenders Political Action Committee. - If 20 hour per week hourly contractor, the hourly rate for this position is $75 - $150 per hour, commensurate with experience. - If full-time exempt employee, the salary range for this position is $85,000 - 130,000, commensurate with experience. - For full time employees, DDA provides a comprehensive benefits package including 20+ days of PTO, 12 holidays, health insurance (100% paid for employee and 50% paid for family), 401K with match, tech and home office stipends, coworking space access, and recurring teambuilding opportunities. - If you are unsure about applying, we encourage you to make a case as to why you are a compelling candidate. A human reviews all application materials, and we are eager to hear from candidates who may not meet all of the qualifications, who possess transferable skills, and who have non-traditional work histories.

Role Description The Administrative and Editorial Assistant delivers critical project management and scheduling support to The Contrarian’s Editor-in-Chief, The Contrarian’s Managing Editor, and the Contrarian’s staff overall. This is an excellent opportunity to learn the operations and strategy behind a successful independent digital media organization and to contribute to a mission-driven publication. To best protect, strengthen, and rebuild our democracy, it is critical that DDA’s staff reflects the diversity of backgrounds and experiences represented in the democracy we seek to defend. Applicants of all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Responsibilities - Support for Managing Editor Julia Payne - Maintain the scheduling calendar to align meetings and work-blocks with strategic editorial focus and breaking news priorities. - Prioritize and track incoming requests from staff and external partners (via email, messages, and meetings), triaging urgent requests, and ensuring timely responses. - Support for Editor-in-Chief Jen Rubin - Maintain and track the Editor-in-Chief’s list of daily tasks and weekly priorities. - Attend daily virtual meetings and effectively communicate and track key takeaways and action items. - Support project execution as directed, including preparing guests, scheduling and running Zoom meetings, uploading to our Substack in coordination with The Contrarian’s digital team, and planning virtual or in-person events. - Complete other administrative tasks as needed, such as booking travel, submitting expenses, completing timesheets, etc. - Support for The Contrarian staff - Plan team building events and opportunities as directed. - Serve as a trusted thought partner to our Editor in Chief, Managing Editor, and Director of Editorial Content. - Act as a liaison with staff at Democracy Defenders Action c4 in partnership with the Director of Editorial Content. Qualifications - 1-2 years in an administrative role in an independent publication, public service office, non-profit, advocacy organization, political campaign, or other comparable environment. - Experience directly supporting senior executives. - Strong time management skills, including the ability to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks appropriately. - Adept at juggling multiple information streams and changing priorities in a fast-paced and high-stakes media environment. - Highly organized with vigorous attention to detail. - Sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information. - Clear and concise written communication and aptitude for distilling key information from multiple sources. - Familiarity with civil society groups, think tanks, and elected leaders is preferred. - Passion for independent journalism. - Unwavering commitment to defeating election sabotage and denial, fighting autocracy, and building a resilient democracy; Experience (professional, volunteer, or otherwise) advancing democracy, election integrity, and the rule of law. - Commitment to diversity and inclusivity and an ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. - Available for week night and weekend work as needed. Requirements - This role is ideally based in the Washington DC/ DMV area. Candidates who are available for in person tasks and meetings will be given preference, but we are open to this role being remote for the right candidate. - The Administrative and Editorial Assistant reports to the Managing Editor and works closely with the Editor-in-Chief and other Senior Editorial leadership. - This role exclusively supports The Contrarian. - The salary range for this position is $55,000 - $80,000, commensurate with experience. Benefits - Comprehensive benefits package including 20+ days of PTO. - 12 holidays. - Health insurance (100% paid for employee and 50% paid for family). - 401K with match. - Tech and home office stipends. - Coworking space access. - Recurring teambuilding opportunities.

Role Description The Communications Assistant will support The Contrarian team’s efforts to expand our digital media ecosystem and work (primarily) with our digital team to strengthen and maintain our online presence to enhance brand reputation and engagement. - In collaboration with the communications team, help develop digital strategies to elevate The Contrarian’s voice in an increasingly competitive information environment. - Work closely with the Senior Digital Director, Communications Associate, and video team to maintain, grow, and innovate across The Contrarian’s social media platforms. - Draft, edit, and publish social media content across multiple platforms. - Assist in updating and maintaining The Contrarian Substack and website. - Ensure consistency, clarity, and alignment with The Contrarian brand when choosing video clips to amplify and also when drafting content. - Assist in the video production of specific shows that will be featured both on Substack and YouTube. - Monitor media coverage and breaking news related to The Contrarian’s mission work. - Research media narratives, reporters, and outlets to inform strategy. - Perform other communications and administrative tasks as assigned. Qualifications - 1–4 years of experience in communications, media, public affairs, or a related field. - Experience drafting social media content for various platforms such as Bluesky, Instagram, Threads, Facebook, and LinkedIn. - Experience collaborating across teams or with external partners. - Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines. - Ability to work quickly and adapt to shifting priorities and breaking news in real time. - Eagerness to learn, take initiative, and incorporate feedback. - Proficiency with language and characteristics of various platforms, in addition to general office tools. - Unwavering commitment to defeating election sabotage and denial, fighting autocracy, and building a resilient democracy. - Commitment to diversity and inclusivity and an ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. - Available for evening and weekend work as needed. Requirements - This is a remote position that may be performed from any state in the U.S. - The Communications Assistant reports to the Director of Editorial Content. - This role exclusively supports The Contrarian. - The salary range for this position is $55,000 - $80,000, commensurate with experience. Benefits - Comprehensive benefits package including 20+ days of PTO. - 12 holidays. - Health insurance (100% paid for employee and 50% paid for family). - 401K with match. - Tech and home office stipends. - Coworking space access. - Recurring teambuilding opportunities.

Democracy Defenders Action, a 501(c)(4) organization Full time, Exempt, Remote Organizational Overview The Democracy Defenders family of organizations (a c3, c4, legally separate PAC, and The Contrarian) is a leader in the fight against authoritarianism, working strategically in the courts and court of public opinion to restore American democracy by: upholding the rule of law, safeguarding free and fair elections, and fighting corruption. Role Purpose Democracy Defenders Action is seeking a mid-level litigation associate to assist with our active, pro-democracy docket and collaborate with external partners on high-impact legal challenges, with a particular focus on voting rights and election cases. To best protect, strengthen, and rebuild our democracy, it is critical that DDA’s staff reflects the diversity of backgrounds and experiences represented in the democracy we seek to defend. Applicants of all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Responsibilities - Support the organization’s election and voting rights litigation efforts, including trial preparation, strategy, and execution in cases critical to defending democracy. - Participate with all phases of litigation, including pre-filing research, pleadings, discovery, motion practice, courtroom advocacy, and appeals. - Draft and coordinate amicus briefs for critical democracy-related cases, with an emphasis on election and voting rights cases. - Assist with identifying and selecting plaintiffs for impactful litigation. - Collaborate with internal multidisciplinary teams and external partners, including co-counsel, nonprofit allies, and communications professionals, to coordinate legal strategy and messaging. - Manage a small portfolio of active cases and ensure deadlines, filings, and legal deliverables are met with precision. - Produce high-quality, effective legal content under tight deadlines, and effectively manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced legal environment. - Travel as needed for court appearances, discovery, and collaborative strategy meetings. - Draft and review talking points and other media materials for amplification of work and cases. - Other tasks as needed. Qualifications - Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school. - Bar membership in good standing, with the ability to waive into the D.C. bar upon hiring. - 5-10 years of litigation experience, including trial advocacy and appellate work; election law and voting rights experience preferred. - Experience as a prosecutor, public defender, or litigator for a nonprofit organization or government agency preferred. - Demonstrated experience in all phases of trial litigation, including legal research, drafting pleadings, conducting discovery (including taking and defending depositions), oral argument, witness preparation, and trial advocacy. - Demonstrated appellate experience preferred. - Strong research, writing, and verbal communication skills. - Capacity to manage multiple cases and prioritize effectively. - Discretion in handling sensitive information. - Unwavering commitment to defeating election sabotage and denial, fighting autocracy, and building a resilient democracy; - Experience (professional, volunteer, or otherwise) advancing democracy, election integrity, and the rule of law. - Commitment to diversity and inclusivity, and an ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. - Occasional travel required. - Occasional weeknight and weekend work required. Role and Compensation Details - The Litigation Counsel position is part of our Litigation department and reports to the Director of Litigation. - This is a remote position that may be performed from any state in the U.S. We offer optional access to office space in Washington, DC. - This role primarily supports Democracy Defenders Fund c3, with some support for Democracy Defenders Action c4. - The salary range for this position is $130,000 - $175,000, commensurate with experience. - DDA provides a comprehensive benefits package including 20+ days of PTO, 12 holidays, health insurance (100% paid for employee and 50% paid for family), 401K with match, tech and home office stipends, coworking space access, and recurring teambuilding opportunities. - Preference given to candidates who apply by April 26 at 11:59pm ET. If you are unsure about applying, we encourage you to make a case as to why you are a compelling candidate. A human reviews all application materials, and we are eager to hear from candidates who may not meet all of the qualifications, who possess transferable skills, and who have non-traditional work histories. Democracy Defenders Action is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.