We view diversity in identity, experience, and expertise as one of our greatest strengths. We make an intentional effort to understand and value the contributions of colleagues across teams and levels, and work to build inclusive, supportive spaces for our team.
Work With Us
Join us as we build a bold and vibrant democracy
At Democracy Forward, we seek to build a first-rate, collegial team to carry out our mission. If you are committed to fighting for the promise of democracy and being part of an inclusive and energetic office culture, we want to hear from you.
Open Positions
Our Benefits
At Democracy Forward, we invest in benefits that protect our health, support our families, and give our team the time to rest and thrive.
Hybrid Work Model
Proudly headquartered in Washington, D.C., with a hybrid work model that provides flexibility while fostering collaboration.
Health & Wellness
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. Employer-paid disability and life insurance. Flexible Spending Accounts.
Flexible Leave
Unlimited PTO. 12 federal holidays with flexible observance of cultural and religious holidays. Sabbatical program after 6 years.
Family Support
16 weeks of paid parental leave for all parents. $10,000 in fertility, adoption, and family forming support.
Financial & Retirement
401(k) retirement plan with employer match. Commuter benefits program. Annual security stipend for personal safety.
Additional Perks
Home office setup stipend. Personal data removal subscription. Optional pet insurance and legal plans available.
Our IMPACT Values
Our values define how we work together and the kind of organization we strive to be – collaborative, courageous, and committed to excellence.
We stay grounded in our mission, not our titles. As needs change, we adapt quickly and redirect our time and resources where they’re most needed.
Collaboration is at the heart of how we operate. We invest in relationships inside and outside the organization and approach challenges with an organizational mindset. We listen actively, assume positive intent, and value the process of working together just as much as the results we achieve.
We show up for each other, for our team, and our clients with excellence. We hold ourselves accountable, taking responsibility for advancing work, especially where there are challenges or obstacles.
Courage is a daily practice that shapes how we work and how we show up for one another. We take calculated risks, welcome challenges, and allow ourselves to be vulnerable in pursuit of growth.
We work hard to solve hard problems. Our tenacity drives us not only to change the law but to remind people that someone is fighting for them.
Ethics & Integrity
Democracy Forward operates with the highest standards of ethics and integrity. Our IMPACT values ground our work, ensuring that we approach our work and community with inclusion, mission-focus, partnership and collaboration, accountability and excellence, courage and tenacity. Our legal professionals are bound by codes of professional ethics and operate with the highest standards of professional ethics.
Email us to learn more about our standards of conduct and values.
The Application Process
Our hiring process varies depending on the role, but in general includes the following steps:
- Your application, which will include your resume and cover letter (and for some roles, screening questions or a writing sample)
- Two to Four interviews (conducted virtually)
- Reference Checks
We want to hear from you if you are committed to fighting for the promise of democracy and being part of an inclusive and energetic office culture. We strongly encourage applications from people of all genders and racial backgrounds, LGBTQI+ individuals, people living with disabilities, veterans, former civil servants, and non-traditional applicants who bring diverse experiences and perspectives.
Please note that all lawyer positions require a law degree and active membership in the bar of a state or the District of Columbia.
Not sure you meet all of our qualifications?
Research shows that men apply for jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the criteria. Yet women and other people who are systematically marginalized tend to only apply if they meet every requirement. If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply. We are dedicated to considering a broad array of candidates, including those with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds. Whether you are new to mission-based legal and policy work, returning to work after a gap in employment, or simply looking to transition or take the next step in your career path, we welcome the opportunity to have you on our radar. Please include in your cover letter the nature of your interest in our work promoting democracy and progress and what you hope to bring to our team and the role for which you are applying.