Job Description
ACLU of Florida
Deputy Legal Director
The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida (ACLU of Florida) invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the position of Deputy Legal Director. With an anticipated start in September 2026, or shortly thereafter, this position offers flexible remote work within Florida or placement in the organization’s Miami or Tallahassee offices.
Chartered in 1965, the https://www.aclufl.org/ is a dynamic, nonpartisan advocacy organization and one of 54 affiliates of the nationalhttps://www.aclu.org/. With more than 60,000 members and an $8.8 million budget, its pivotal work is carried out by 39 full-time staff members as well as fellows, interns, externs, and cooperating attorneys. The ACLU of Florida is supported entirely by private donations, foundation grants, court-awarded legal fees, and membership dues, receiving no government funding.
In this senior role, the Deputy Legal Director will work alongside the Legal Director to co-direct the Legal Department, design statewide legal strategies, and defend fundamental freedoms and civil rights. The position requires occasional travel.
Core Responsibilities
• Litigation & Advocacy: Direct high-impact cases in federal courts, manage pre- and post-litigation efforts, and provide policy analysis. Serve as a media spokesperson on First Amendment or immigrants’ rights.
• Team Leadership: Supervise, mentor, and evaluate five direct reports as well as fellows, interns, and volunteers. Manage departmental operations, oversee hiring, and step in for the Legal Director when absent.
• Community Outreach: Build coalitions, lead “know your rights” programs, and develop Continuing Legal Education (CLE) presentations.
Qualifications
The ACLU of Florida is seeking a passionate, seasoned litigator with exceptional analytical and legal advocacy skills to champion civil rights statewide. Qualified candidates must possess a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and either a license to practice law in Florida or admission to the Florida Bar within the first year of employment. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a deep commitment to civil liberties, racial justice, and equity, alongside the ability to seamlessly integrate principles of inclusion into all aspects of legal strategy and management. To view the complete position specification, including a full list of desired qualifications and characteristics, please visit: https://apptrkr.com/7248163
Compensation & Benefits
• Salary Range: $140,000 to $160,700.
• Benefits: Excellent benefits, including medical, vision, and dental insurance, life and long-term disability insurance, 401(k) contribution, generous paid vacation, and holidays.
Application Process
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews may be scheduled at any time. Interested professionals are encouraged to submit a resume and a cover letter here: https://apptrkr.com/7248163 by July 15, 2026. Early application is strongly recommended to ensure full consideration.
Inquiries and Accommodations
• Confidential Inquiries: Contact Jim Norfleet at jmn@spelmanandjohnson.com
• Reasonable Accommodations: Individuals needing accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson by phone at 413-529-2895 or email at info@spelmanandjohnson.com
Visit the https://www.aclufl.org/ for more information.
The ACLU of Florida is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. The ACLU of Florida encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.
This announcement provides a descriptive but not exhaustive list of the essential responsibilities and qualifications required. It does not represent a contract of employment. The ACLU of Florida reserves the right to change the job description and/or posting at any time without advance notice. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
