Counsel - Criminal Justice Project
WASHINGTON, DCPosted 30+ days ago
Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law
Job overview
The Counsel - Criminal Justice Project role at Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law involves legal advocacy to promote racial justice and equality within the criminal justice system, including litigation and public policy work.
Responsibilities and impact
The Counsel will coordinate litigation teams, litigate in federal and state courts, develop new cases, review legislation, collaborate across projects, and represent the organization's positions publicly on criminal justice and hate crimes issues.
Compensation and benefits
The role offers a salary range of $76,000 to $113,000 and includes comprehensive benefits such as healthcare coverage (medical, dental, vision), parental leave, 403(b) retirement plan with employer match, disability insurance, and a monthly cell phone stipend.
Experience and skills
Candidates must have a deep commitment to civil rights and criminal justice reform, experience in complex civil or criminal litigation, strong research and communication skills, proficiency with legal research tools, admission or eligibility for the DC Bar, and willingness to travel.
Work environment and culture
The organization values diversity, inclusion, and a commitment to racial justice, fostering a workplace that encourages advocacy-driven approaches and collaboration within a unionized environment.
Company information
The Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is a leading national racial justice legal organization founded in 1963, dedicated to achieving racial justice through legal advocacy and public policy work.
Team overview
The Counsel will report to the Director of the Criminal Justice Project and work with teams including staff, pro bono counsel, investigators, and interns.
Job location and travel
The position is based in Washington, DC, with some travel required.
Application process
Applicants are encouraged to apply by submitting their applications to join the organization's mission for civil rights and racial justice.
Unique job features
The role includes unique opportunities to litigate civil rights cases, engage in amicus curiae practice, public education, and advocacy against white supremacist groups through the James Byrd Center to Stop Hate.
Company overview
The Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization founded in 1963 at the request of President John F. Kennedy to address racial discrimination and promote equal justice. They make money through donations, grants, and fundraising events to support their mission of securing equal justice under the law. The organization has a significant history of litigating landmark civil rights cases and advocating for policies that combat racial injustice, voting rights violations, and economic inequality.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight your commitment to civil rights, criminal justice reform, and racial justice advocacy, reflecting the core mission of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.
Emphasize your experience with complex civil or criminal litigation, including legal research, drafting briefs, conducting discovery, depositions, and courtroom litigation, as well as your ability to coordinate with litigation teams.
Highlight any work with communities of color and your skills in legal advocacy against systemic injustices, including issues related to police misconduct, due process, and white supremacy.
Apply through multiple platforms including the Lawyers' Committee's official careers page and LinkedIn to maximize your visibility and application reach.
Connect with current employees in the Criminal Justice Project or related divisions on LinkedIn, using ice breakers like commenting on recent litigation successes, shared passion for racial justice, or asking about team culture and advocacy strategies.
Optimize your resume for ATS by including keywords from the job description such as 'civil rights litigation,' 'criminal justice reform,' 'legal research,' 'amicus curiae,' 'white supremacy,' and 'client advocacy' to ensure it passes automated screenings.
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