Program Associate (Law and Research)

About the role

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) is seeking a mission‑driven lawyer to join its team as a Program Associate (Law and Research). You will support ADR’s litigation, policy, and research agenda aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and electoral integrity in India.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the organisation's Public Interest Litigation strategy in the Supreme Court and High Courts.
• Draft and file amicus briefs, petitions and other legal documents on electoral rolls, voter exclusion and campaign finance transparency.
• Represent ADR in legal proceedings and coordinate with senior panel counsel.
• Manage Right to Information (RTI) applications and responses.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory changes affecting democratic processes.
• Prepare legal analyses, policy reports and technical recommendations for bodies such as the Law Commission.
• Conduct legal research on electoral and political reforms and author research papers.
• Provide expert advice on the Representation of the People Acts (1950 & 1951) and Election Commission of India guidelines.
• Assist policymakers, coalition partners and grassroots organisations with legal counsel.
• Address legal queries from ADR team members and State Partners, and support event organisation related to electoral reforms.
• Draft replies to legal queries, letters of intent and contracts.

Required profile

• Young lawyer with a strong commitment to the social sector.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Legal expertise in constitutional law, voting rights and election law.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid environment.

Required skills

• Legal research and analysis.
• Drafting of petitions, briefs and policy documents.
• Knowledge of the Representation of the People Acts and ECI guidelines.
• Experience with Public Interest Litigation and RTI processes.