Staff Attorney

The Justice & Accountability Center of Louisiana (JAC) is seeking a dedicated and passionate Staff Attorney to join our legal team. The Staff Attorney will play a vital role in providing direct legal services, supporting policy advocacy, and advancing JAC’s mission to eliminate barriers for individuals impacted by the criminal legal system. This position involves client representation, legal research, community outreach, and collaboration with partners to reform systemic injustices.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal representation to clients in matters such as expungements, driver’s license reinstatements, and other re-entry legal issues.
• Conduct legal intakes, screenings, and consultations at JAC’s clinics and outreach events.
• Draft and file legal documents, motions, and petitions related to criminal justice reform.
• Collaborate with coalitions and advocacy groups to support policy initiatives aimed at decarceration and social justice.
• Educate clients and community members on their legal rights through workshops and “Know Your Rights” materials.
• Support impact litigation and policy reform efforts, including participating in legislative hearings and public testimony.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Licensed to practice law in Louisiana.
• Strong commitment to social justice, racial equity, and decarceration.
• Experience in criminal defense, civil rights, or re-entry services is preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Job Title: Staff Attorney

Organization: Justice & Accountability Center of Louisiana (JAC)

Location: 4035 Washington Avenue, New Orleans, LA

Employment Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Legal Director

About the Organization

The Justice & Accountability Center of Louisiana (JAC) is a statewide nonprofit dedicated to eliminating obstacles to opportunity for people harmed by systemic racism and the economic impacts of the criminal legal system. We focus on providing direct legal services, advancing policy advocacy, and engaging in public education to support individuals impacted by criminal records and related barriers. JAC has successfully led numerous statewide initiatives, including reforms to solitary confinement policies and expungement laws. Our vision is a world where people with criminal records can thrive without barriers, with their voices centered in systemic reform efforts.

Position Summary

We are seeking a passionate and skilled Staff Attorney to join our legal team. The Staff Attorney will play a critical role in providing holistic legal representation, supporting policy advocacy initiatives, and collaborating with community partners to achieve JAC’s mission. This role involves direct legal services, including handling expungements, driver’s license reinstatements, and re-entry legal issues, as well as contributing to systemic change through policy reform and advocacy.

Key Responsibilities

• Legal Services & Case Management:
  • Provide direct legal representation for clients in expungements, driver’s license reinstatements, occupational licensing appeals, and related re-entry issues.
  • Conduct client intakes, screenings, and consultations at JAC’s legal clinics, workshops, and community outreach events.
  • Manage a diverse caseload, including preparing pleadings, motions, and other court documents.
  • Represent clients in court hearings, negotiations, and administrative proceedings.
  • Assist clients in navigating the removal of online criminal records and mugshots.
• Community Outreach & Engagement:
  • Organize and participate in legal clinics, community workshops, and educational events to increase awareness of legal rights.
  • Develop “Know Your Rights” guides, informational materials, and other resources for community distribution.
  • Collaborate with the Outreach & Engagement Director to connect clients and community members to advocacy campaigns.
• Policy Advocacy & Reform:
  • Support JAC’s policy initiatives, including participating in the Louisiana Stop Solitary Coalition and other criminal justice reform coalitions.
  • Conduct legal research and policy analysis on issues related to solitary confinement, fines and fees, expungements, and occupational licensing.
  • Draft policy briefs, legislative testimony, and advocacy materials to advance JAC’s reform efforts.
  • Attend and present at legislative hearings, task force meetings, and community forums to advocate for systemic change.
• Collaboration & Partnership Building:
  • Work closely with pro bono attorneys, contract attorneys, law students, and volunteers to expand JAC’s legal services capacity.
  • Engage with nonprofit partners, government agencies, and community organizations to enhance collaborative efforts.
  • Support impacted individuals in leading advocacy initiatives and providing their testimony in policy reform efforts.
• Administrative & Reporting Duties:
  • Maintain accurate case files and documentation using JAC’s case management system.
  • Track client outcomes, gather data for grant reports, and contribute to program evaluation efforts.
  • Assist with preparing reports for funders, stakeholders, and JAC’s Board of Directors.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Education & Experience:
  • Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
  • Active license to practice law in the state of Louisiana.
  • At least 2-3 years of legal experience, preferably in criminal defense, civil rights, re-entry services, or a related field.
  • Experience with direct client services, case management, and courtroom litigation is strongly preferred.
• Skills & Competencies:
  • Strong commitment to social justice, racial equity, and decarceration.
  • Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
  • Ability to handle a diverse caseload with a high level of organization and attention to detail.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and case management software.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with clients, community members, partners, and policymakers.
  • A self-starter who can work independently while also collaborating effectively in a team environment.
• Personal Attributes:
  • Empathy and a client-centered approach, with the ability to build trust with marginalized communities.
  • Flexibility, creativity, and problem-solving skills to navigate complex legal and policy challenges.
  • Strong public speaking skills and the ability to engage with diverse audiences.
  • Passion for advancing social justice and the mission of JAC.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and a writing sample to sherie@jaclouisiana.org. In your cover letter, please describe your commitment to social justice and why you are interested in this position. Please include “Staff Attorney Application” in the subject line.