Privacy, Cyber & Data Governance Special Counsel

Job Overview:
A leading law firm is seeking a Privacy, Cyber & Data Governance Special Counsel to join its expanding practice in Washington, DC. This role is part of a nationally recognized, multidisciplinary Telecommunications, Media & Technology group and will also collaborate across other legal teams. The position is ideal for an experienced attorney with significant expertise in privacy compliance, cybersecurity, surveillance law, and incident response, particularly those who thrive in client-facing roles and are interested in strategic and business development opportunities.

Location:

• Washington, DC

Duties:

• Advise clients on privacy and cybersecurity compliance frameworks, including U.S. and global regulations

• Provide legal guidance on surveillance laws, data handling, and information governance

• Assist clients with cyber incident preparation and response

• Represent clients in government investigations, regulatory inquiries, or related litigation

• Lead or contribute to multidisciplinary legal teams on privacy and data-related issues

• Manage projects and client matters with a focus on accuracy, responsiveness, and risk mitigation

• Participate in business development and contribute to thought leadership initiatives

Requirements:

• Minimum of 6 years of legal experience in:

  • Privacy and data protection law

  • Cybersecurity compliance and incident response

  • Surveillance regulations and data management policies

• Experience with government investigations or litigation (preferred)

• Demonstrated ability to work in a client-facing role with strategic responsibility

• Strong project management, attention to detail, and innovative problem-solving skills

• Motivated self-starter with interest in growing client relationships and expanding practice reach

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited U.S. law school

Certifications:

• Active license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction

• Admission to the Washington, DC Bar (or eligibility for waiver/admission)

Skills:

• Deep knowledge of U.S. and international privacy laws (e.g., GDPR, CCPA)

• Proficiency in data breach response protocols and incident management

• Strong written and verbal communication for both technical and non-technical audiences

• Collaborative mindset with the ability to lead and advise cross-functional teams

• Experience drafting and reviewing data sharing agreements, policies, and protocols

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Prescription drug coverage

• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options

• 401(k) retirement plan with discretionary firm contributions

• Generous paid time off (PTO) and 10 paid holidays

• Paid parental leave and subsidized backup child/elder care

• Access to state-of-the-art on-site fitness facilities and wellness programs

Based in Washington and Virginia, this national law firm with over 200 attorneys started in the early 1980s with the motive to provide attentive, innovative and first-rate advocacy grounded in legal, regulatory and public policy expertise and experience. Advertising, aviation, appellate, antitrust, corporate, communications, bankruptcy and financial restructuring, election law and government ethics, international trade, litigation, postal, privacy, public policy, insurance, health care, intellectual property, white collar defense & government investigations, employment & labor, environment safety and government contracts are the firm's specialty areas.