MLSA is looking for a Lawyer
Lawyer — Legal Unit Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA), Istanbul
The Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA) is an Istanbul-based civil society organization defending press freedom and freedom of expression in Turkey. Our legal unit provides direct legal representation to journalists and others prosecuted for their expression, monitors trials across the country, and pursues strategic litigation before the domestic courts, the Constitutional Court (AYM), and the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR).
We are looking for a committed lawyer to join our legal unit. This is a demanding, front-line role for someone who wants their legal practice to serve freedom of expression — not a desk job. You will be in court, in detention facilities, and on the road, often at short notice.
Responsibilities
- Represent and defend journalists and clients in criminal
- Accompany clients during police detention and custody, including at night and on short
- Conduct prison visits and attend hearings, traveling to other cities as the caseload
- Monitor trials and contribute to MLSA's court-monitoring and legal reporting
- Draft petitions, defense submissions, and legal
- Prepare individual applications to the Constitutional Court and applications to the
- Contribute to strategic litigation, including precedent-seeking challenges
Essential requirements
- Law degree and active membership of a bar association in Turkey, licensed to practice and appear in court.
- Willingness and ability to travel frequently and at short notice, including outside
- Availability for detention monitoring outside regular working
- Strong written and spoken
- Excellent legal drafting in
- Genuine interest in freedom of expression, press freedom, and civil society
- Ability to work under pressure, with discretion and sound professional
Desirable
- Experience in criminal defense, particularly freedom of expression or press-freedom
- Familiarity with Constitutional Court (bireysel başvuru) and ECtHR
- Prior experience with human rights organizations or
How to apply Send your CV and a short motivation note to
We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and will begin interviews as candidates apply. The position will remain open until filled, so we encourage you to apply as early as possible.
