Pro Bono Attorney

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. CAIR’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

Job Title: Pro Bono Attorney

Location: Washington, District of Columbia

Position Type: Volunteer/Pro Bono

Commitment: One-year

Reporting: Directly to National Deputy Litigation Director

Position Summary: CAIR’s Litigation Department is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Pro Bono Attorney to join our team. The Pro Bono Attorney will provide high-quality legal representation and advice to clients who cannot afford legal services. This role involves working on a variety of cases.

Key Volunteer Responsibilities:

• Work collaboratively with other attorneys as a member of our legal team
• Involvement in all aspects of the trial stage, including, but not limited to conducting fact investigation, working with expert witnesses, serving and responding to written discovery, taking and defending depositions, drafting substantive and procedural briefs, conducting all aspects of any trial, and presenting oral argument in federal court, local and state courts if applicable, and administrative hearings
• Involvement in alternative dispute resolution proceedings and settlement negotiations, and recommending settlements of litigation when appropriate
• Conduct intakes and investigate legal claims through effective communication with an incredibly diverse community
• Manage their own caseload
• Communicate with outside parties such as attorneys, employers, law enforcement agents, administrative agencies, etc.
• Participate in speaking engagements pertaining to civil rights issues facing the American Muslim community
• Training and coaching of CAIR staff as requested
• Attend continuing legal education seminars and keep abreast of changes in the law through reading or other means
• Travel and weekend hours required as needed

Qualifications:

• J.D. from an accredited law school and an active member of the bar (any jurisdiction)
• Ability to handle multiple concurrent assignments and meet deadlines; must be able to work well both independently and in a team environment
• Well-versed with the civil rights law
• Excellent legal research, writing and oral skills
• The ideal candidate has a minimum three years of experience as an attorney
• Experience in appellate practice preferred
• No disciplinary actions on record or pending
• An understanding of civil rights issues relating to American Muslims
• Passion for the mission of the Council on American-Islamic Relations
• Ability to communicate in language other than English is a plus
• Willingness to commit a minimum of 20 hours per week for one year
• Flexibility to work on urgent matters as needed

Rewards:

• Impact: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities in need.
• Experience: Gain valuable experience in various areas of law and legal practice.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, networking, and professional growth.
• Supportive Environment: Work in a collaborative and supportive team atmosphere.