Join Our Team: Counsel/Senior Counsel - Economic Justice Project

About Us: The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is one of the nation’s leading civil rights legal organizations. Formed in 1963 at the direction of President John F. Kennedy, the Lawyers’ Committee uses legal advocacy to achieve racial justice, fighting inside and outside the courts to ensure that Black people and other people of color have the voice, opportunity, and power to make the promises of our democracy real. 

The Opportunity: We are on the lookout for a passionate and skilled attorney to join our team as Counsel/Senior Counsel, focusing on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) matters. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and combating discrimination through legal and advocacy-based strategies. Your work will encompass litigation, policy advocacy, and the development of strategies to advance racial justice and economic opportunity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Educational Resources: Conduct legal research, analysis, and create educational and advocacy resources addressing DEI issues.
• Litigation: Engage in litigation related to DEI matters, advocating for equity and inclusion in federal and state courts.
• Support and Guidance: Provide legal support to entities, including nonprofits and grassroots community organizations, on DEI matters related to contracting, grantmaking, and employment.
• Public Representation: Articulate and represent the Lawyers’ Committee’s positions on DEI issues through public speaking, op-eds, amicus briefs, and coalition work.
• Litigation Expertise: Litigate in federal and state courts throughout the country, including appellate courts.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with regional partners, government agencies, and co-counsel to investigate and evaluate new cases.
• Advocacy: Draft amicus briefs in alignment with the Lawyers’ Committee’s mission.
• Public Engagement: Engage in public education and public policy efforts supporting the EJP’s work.
• Research and Data: Research and compile data to support advocacy efforts; draft written materials, including policy reports, testimony, briefing papers, toolkits, and educational resources.
• Relationship Building: Cultivate and maintain relationships with key partners and grassroots community organizations.
• Coalition Work: Represent the Lawyers’ Committee in coalition efforts, media engagements, and meetings with government officials.
• Mentorship: Depending on experience level, provide guidance to less experienced attorneys and interns.

Minimum Requirements and Competencies:

• Legal Background: Graduation from an accredited law school.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of legal experience (9 years for Senior Counsel).
• Advocacy Commitment: Deep dedication to advancing civil rights and racial justice.
• Civil Rights Experience: Experience working on civil rights issues, preferably related to employment discrimination, DEI, and/or contracting.
• Litigation Skills: Experience litigating complex civil cases, including writing legal memoranda and briefs, discovery, and deposition work.
• Courtroom Experience: Ideal candidate will have experience conducting evidentiary hearings, trials, and oral arguments.
• Team Leadership: Proficiency in managing and maintaining relationships with clients and leading teams of people in litigation, legal advocacy, and/or investigations.
• Communication: Excellent research, writing, and communication skills.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including creative approaches to issues.
• Community Engagement: Experience working with or for communities of color.
• Organization: Strong organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Deadline-Oriented: Ability to produce high-quality work under pressure of multiple deadlines.
• Collaboration: Ability to build trust and credibility with clients, colleagues, and external partners.
• Team Player: Ability to work independently and as part of a team, receptive to direction and guidance.
• Adaptability: Ability to be flexible and responsive.
• Initiative: Motivated and willing to take initiative to handle additional responsibilities as needed.
• Tech Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office software, Westlaw, and internet research tools.
• Bar Membership: Admitted to the DC Bar; pending admission to the DC Bar; or ability to waive into the DC Bar.
• Travel: Willingness and ability to travel as required.

Ready to Make an Impact? If you are passionate about civil rights, racial justice, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, we want to hear from you. Join our mission to drive positive change and contribute to our dynamic team!

Apply Today: Be part of the force for civil rights and make a lasting impact. Submit your application to help us create a more equitable and inclusive world.