Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Hybrid) | Full-Time

Defend Liberty. Challenge Government Overreach. Shape Louisiana’s Future.

The Pelican Institute’s mission is to research and develop policy solutions to address the most significant barriers to opportunity in Louisiana. We educate the public about the benefits of individual liberty and free enterprise, turning great ideas into powerful policy solutions that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. 

The Pelican Institute’s Center for Justice is seeking a strategic thinker, skilled advocate, and entrepreneurial litigator who is passionate about protecting constitutional rights, expanding economic opportunity, and advancing limited government through litigation, administrative advocacy, and legal policy reform.

We represent individuals, entrepreneurs, small businesses, taxpayers, and organizations whose constitutional and statutory rights have been infringed by government action. We pursue strategic litigation designed to create lasting legal precedent while also engaging policymakers, the media, and the public to advance the principles of free enterprise, individual liberty, and accountable government.

If you believe the law should protect opportunity rather than restrict it, we encourage you to apply.

What You’ll Do

Working alongside experienced litigators and policy professionals, you will help identify, develop, and litigate cases that advance economic liberty and constitutional government in Louisiana.

Responsibilities include:

  • Develop and litigate constitutional and civil rights cases in Louisiana state and federal courts.
  • Manage cases from investigation through trial and appeal.
  • Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and appellate filings.
  • Take and defend depositions, conduct discovery, and participate in hearings and oral arguments.
  • Identify potential strategic litigation opportunities throughout Louisiana.
  • Build relationships with prospective clients, community organizations, and allied attorneys.
  • Collaborate with policy, communications, and government affairs teams to maximize the impact of litigation.
  • Prepare legal analyses of proposed legislation, administrative regulations, and agency actions.
  • Draft legal memoranda, white papers, and public education materials.
  • Speak before civic organizations, professional associations, legislative committees, and the media on legal and constitutional issues.
  • Contribute to the Pelican Institute’s broader mission of advancing free-market reforms through litigation, scholarship, and public engagement.

Areas of Practice

The attorney may work on matters involving:

  • Economic liberty
  • Occupational licensing reform
  • Property rights
  • Administrative law
  • Separation of powers
  • Government transparency and open government
  • Regulatory reform
  • Civil forfeiture
  • Taxpayer rights
  • Free speech
  • Educational freedom
  • Equal protection and due process
  • Constitutional challenges to unlawful government action

Qualifications

Required:

  • Admission to the Louisiana Bar or eligibility for prompt admission.
  • Two or more years of litigation experience (judicial clerkships may be considered).
  • Excellent legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
  • Strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple complex matters independently.
  • Willingness to travel throughout Louisiana as needed.

Preferred:

  • Experience in constitutional, appellate, administrative, or complex civil litigation.
  • Federal court experience.
  • Judicial clerkship.
  • Experience arguing dispositive motions or appeals.
  • Familiarity with Louisiana administrative law and state government.
  • Existing relationships within Louisiana’s legal or policy communities.

What Makes Someone Successful in This Role

Successful candidates will:

  • Demonstrate intellectual curiosity and creativity in identifying legal solutions to public policy problems.
  • Take ownership of their cases while collaborating effectively with colleague and other free market organizations.
  • Communicate complex legal concepts clearly to judges, policymakers, clients, donors, and the public.
  • Exercise sound judgment and professionalism in high-profile matters.
  • Thrive in a mission-driven environment where initiative and innovation are valued.
  • Be motivated by the opportunity to create lasting legal and policy change.

Our Culture

We believe that meaningful legal victories begin with bold ideas and exceptional people. Our attorneys are encouraged to think entrepreneurially, pursue innovative legal theories, and develop cases that can reshape Louisiana law.

Our legal team works closely with policy experts, economists, communications professionals, and legislative advocates to ensure our litigation creates lasting impact beyond the courtroom.

We value collaboration, intellectual rigor, professionalism, humility, and a shared commitment to individual liberty and free markets.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer:

  • Competitive nonprofit salary commensurate with experience
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement plan with employer contribution
  • Flexible vacation and holiday schedule
  • Continuing legal education and professional development support
  • Bar dues and professional membership reimbursement
  • Flexible hybrid work environment
  • Opportunities to litigate precedent-setting constitutional cases

How to Apply

Please submit the following to cfj@pelicaninstitute.org:

  • Cover letter describing your interest in the Pelican Institute’s mission and this position
  • Resume
  • Writing sample (10 pages or fewer)
  • Three professional references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The Pelican Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We seek talented individuals who are committed to excellence, professionalism, and advancing the principles of individual liberty, free enterprise, and constitutional government.