Legal Counsel, Christian Ministries
Alliance Defending Freedom
Lansdowne, VA · $115k–$190k a year · Posted April 14, 2026
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Pay compared with the market
This listing pays about $152,500 a year. Across 37 open legal counsel listings that state pay, the middle half runs $165,000 to $240,000 and the median is $212,500. That is 28% below the median, below the middle half of those listings.
Listed pay is what employers advertise, not what people are paid.
About the job
Make a difference with us! At Alliance Defending Freedom, we believe God has brought you here for His purpose—to stand for truth and defend the God-given right to live and speak it. Together, we protect religious freedom, free speech, the sanctity of life, marriage and family, and parental rights. Review our Statement of Faith to ensure we’re a fit for you.
Locations: Lansdowne, VA / Scottsdale, AZ / Dallas, TX
Team Overview
In this role, you will be responsible for evaluating and leading litigation matters that advance and defend the constitutionally protected rights of churches, Christian ministries, and religious schools under the First Amendment. In this role, you will report to the Senior Counsel, Director of the Center for Christian Ministries. As Legal Counsel, your primary responsibility will be to support the mission by helping lead strategic litigation efforts with minimal oversight from senior attorneys, ensuring the continued protection of religious liberty.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct research and interview clients and witnesses
Prepare and respond to written discovery; conduct and defend depositions
Develop strategy, arguments, and testimony in preparation for presentation of cases.
Represent clients in court, and before quasi-judicial or administrative agencies of government; interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and businesses
Confer with colleagues to establish and verify basis for legal proceedings
Advise allied attorneys on legal issues within areas of competence
Minimum Qualifications
J.D., active license in at least one US state bar, and capable of meeting admission requirements in relevant jurisdiction within one year
2+ years of complex litigation experience
Preferred Qualification
Trial experience
Pay & Benefits
At Alliance Defending Freedom, we offer competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package to support your well-being and growth. Our benefits include 100% covered medical and dental insurance, medical and dependent care reimbursement, paid disability, long-term care, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan with a 4% company match. We prioritize work-life balance with paid time off and 12 paid holidays each year.
Want to Know More About ADF?
This salary range is reflective of a position based in Lansdowne, VA. This range is a good-faith estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on the candidate’s experience, skills, qualifications, and office location.
Virginia Salary Range $115,000 — $190,000 USD