What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Attorney (Cleveland Office) position at Council on American-Islamic Relations?
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Staff Attorney will provide legal representation, advocacy, and support to individuals and communities facing discrimination and civil rights violations. The role involves direct client services, community education, and collaborative work with other CAIR-Ohio staff and partner organizations.
Legal Representation & Advocacy
- Provide legal counsel and representation to clients in matters related to civil rights, employment discrimination, immigration, and other relevant areas.
- Conduct legal research, draft pleadings, and represent clients in hearings and trials.
- Collaborate with external legal partners and coalitions to advance strategic litigation and policy advocacy.
- Conduct client intake interviews to assess legal issues and determine eligibility for services.
- Collaborate with CAIR Leadership to engage in strategic research and solutions.
Community Outreach & Education
- Develop and deliver know-your-rights workshops and legal clinics for community members.
- Build and maintain relationships with other legal service providers, bar associations, advocacy organizations and other legal advocacy groups to support collective action and community empowerment.
- Advocate for policy changes at local, state, and federal levels to advance civil rights protections.
- Work with CAIR-Ohio’s communication team to disseminate information on legal rights and resources.
- Provide training and mentorship to CAIR legal interns and volunteers.
- Participate in professional development opportunities, including attending relevant conferences and training sessions.
Organizational Support
- Assist in the development and implementation of CAIR-Ohio’s strategic legal initiatives.
- Participate in grant writing and reporting to secure funding for legal services and advocacy projects.
- Contribute to the creation of educational materials and resources for the community and legal professionals.
- Support CAIR-Ohio’s mission and vision through active engagement in local and national organizational events and campaigns.
Required Qualifications
- J.D. from an accredited law school and admission to practice law in Ohio.
- Minimum of 2-3 years of legal experience beyond law school in civil rights, immigration, or related legal fields.
- Strong commitment to social justice, civil rights, and CAIR’s mission.
- Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
- Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
- Eligible to work in the United States.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Multilingual skills are a plus (in languages such as Arabic, Urdu, Uzbek, Somali, etc.).
- Experience working with people from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.
- Mission-driven and self-directed.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary, commensurate with skills and experience.
- Benefits include:
- Employee and dependent coverage for health, vision, and dental insurance
- Paid time off including holidays, vacation days, and personal days
All applications require:
- Cover Letter, describing how your experience and skills fit the position
- Resume
Applications should be emailed to fodeh@cair.com
Applications will be considered upon receipt, and the position will be open until filled.
CAIR-Ohio is an equal opportunity employer.