Litigation Director
Upper Seven Law
Upper Seven Law is a Montana-based nonprofit law firm dedicated to holding the powerful accountable. We believe that creativity and innovation in law are essential to advancing social justice and public interest objectives. We take smart risks and invest the time necessary to build foundations for sustainable accountability.
Position: Litigation Director
Upper Seven Law seeks a creative and experienced litigator to join our team as the incoming Litigation Director (to overlap with our outgoing Litigation Director). In this role, you will help shape Upper Seven’s litigation strategy, oversee a team of staff attorneys and legal fellows, and direct day-to-day litigation tasks. This role reports to and collaborates closely with the Executive Director.
Ideal candidates have experience writing briefs, developing complaints, engaging in discovery, building client relationships, and litigating claims for declaratory and injunctive relief. A generalist background or specialization in constitutional law is preferred, but not required. Essential qualities include the ability to remain calm under pressure, think innovatively and strategically to solve legal problems, work collaboratively with others, train and supervise other attorneys, and give and receive feedback with grace.
The position is based in beautiful Helena, Montana. Well known for its hiking and mountain biking trails, gorgeous Victorian architecture, and close community feel, the capital city is also the hub of Montana law and government.
Responsibilities & Opportunities
- Litigation Management: Oversee a docket of up to 15 active cases in state and federal court; supervise a team of three to six staff attorneys; manage and develop case-specific litigation strategies and priorities; advocate in court and through day-to-day litigation, including drafting pleadings, motions, briefs, and discovery; and collaborate regularly with the Executive Director.
- Legal Advocacy & Leadership: Lead staff attorneys in articulating compelling legal arguments and narratives in briefs, memos, press releases, and other documents related to new projects and ongoing litigation; collaborate with the leadership team to formulate a vision for pursuing work that holds the powerful accountable, serves the public interest, and meets community needs through cases and projects that fit meaningfully into the overall legal strategy.
- Team Management & Supervision: Manage and mentor Upper Seven’s growing team of attorneys; foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, learning and leadership; provide guidance and support to ensure the highest quality legal work and professional growth for all team members. In collaboration with the Operations Director, develop department policies and procedures to improve internal processes, manage relationships internally and externally.
- Partnership Development: Cultivate strategic partnerships with other organizations, community groups, and legal experts. Engage stakeholders, including the press and donors, to build coalitions, support grassroots initiatives, and support Upper Seven’s mission. Represent the firm at conferences, in media, and at local gatherings and events.
Experience & Qualifications
- JD from an accredited law school; active and in good standing membership with the Montana bar, or the ability to be admitted in Montana.
- Exceptional writing ability.
- Roughly 4+ years of relevant litigation experience, with a demonstrated track record of effective advocacy in federal and state court proceedings.
- Excellent leadership abilities, including experience mentoring attorneys.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex legal concepts.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for social justice and accountability.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of work.
Logistics
- Location: Helena, MT (flexible schedule with limited hybrid options available)
- Compensation: $92k–$110k annually, plus health benefits.
- Upper Seven Law is an equal opportunity employer. We recognize the value and strength of a diverse staff and we prioritize diversity, kindness, and competency.
Upper Seven Law is committed to mentorship, professional growth, and providing opportunities for advancement and skill development. Application Instructions: Please submit your application as a single PDF, to include your resume (with hyperlinks to published writing where possible), law school transcript, contact information for three references, and a recent legal writing sample. In your cover email, let us know how you became aware of this position. Submit by email to contact@uppersevenlaw.com with “[Your Last Name] – [Position Title] application” in the subject line. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. No unscheduled phone calls, please.
