Legal Affairs Reporter

The Austin American-Statesman / statesman.com , located in the 11th largest city in the country and part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a courts and legal affairs reporter to keep tabs on criminal justice in Austin's state district courts, proceedings in federal court and state appellate courts in the Texas capital.

Passing through Austin's courtrooms are extraordinary cases filled with family tragedy, investigative intrigue and high-stakes rulings from regional seats of justice. We seek a candidate who understands that our job is to untangle the arcane world of jurisprudence. It's a beat that requires discernment and discretion, the ability to focus on the big-picture cases yet spot those gems in the lower courts.

But the work also should incorporate a broader view of the legal system through the lens of people of color and other historically disenfranchised populations in the community. The reporter will also use social media and other platforms to build communities and loyalty to the Austin American-Statesman.

The reporter will not only contribute day-to-day nuts-and-bolts reporting, such as event coverage, elections and breaking news, but also be asked to assume a digital-first mentality.

Responsibilities

Create content (articles, videos, photos and social media posts) about local news that accurately informs, entertains and engages key audiences and platforms with metrics.
Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
Work toward becoming the community’s leading voice for news and issues.
Plan and execute engagement opportunities to reach audiences through content, community events and social media.
Work with editor to evaluate what's working and what's not and develop ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
Collaborate with content team to provide all appropriate elements for stories (i.e., photos, videos and graphics).
Promote personal brand, colleagues’ brands and the institutional brand.
Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.