The Southern Poverty Law Center Seeks Managing Attorney for its Miami Office
The Southern Poverty Law Center is seeking a managing attorney for its Miami office to litigate cases related to education and juvenile justice reform throughout the state.
Project Description:
The Southern Poverty Law Center (“SPLC”) works to reduce the imprisonment of children by advocating for juvenile justice and educational reforms. SPLC works to end school disciplinary practices that exclude students from public schools and to reduce the over-incarceration of children. The Miami office has a leadership team which includes the Managing Attorney, Director of Advocacy and the Policy Director.
SPLC uses a variety of strategies in their work—including community engagement and mobilizing, legislative and media advocacy and litigation. Litigation successes include IDEA litigation which has resulted in the reform of overly punitive, ineffective disciplinary policies. SPLC attorneys have also successfully worked to reduce the number of children imprisoned in several states in the Deep South.
Responsibilities of Position:
- SPLC is currently seeking an experienced and dedicated attorney to work collaboratively on multiple initiatives. Responsibilities of the position include:
- Litigating education cases in federal district court throughout the Deep South;
- Managing the legal work of law fellows and staff attorneys;
- Along with the Director of Advocacy, managing the day-to-day operations of an office of approximately 10 people;
- Developing new cases throughout the state;
- Communicating regularly with SPLC staff across the southern region about the litigation docket; and
- Representing SPLC in various forums, including before community groups, legislators and state agencies.
Necessary Qualifications:
The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications:
- At least 3-5 years experience litigating civil rights actions in federal district court (or comparable legal experience);
- Experience with advocacy campaigns aimed at reforming school discipline and/or juvenile justice practices;
- Creativity and a demonstrated willingness to take calculated risks in crafting and executing litigation strategies;
- Initiative, vision and a strong commitment to the struggle for social justice;
- Strong writing and communication skills;
- A non-hierarchical, client-centered approach to advocacy, and experience working with and for parents, students and/or imprisoned young people; and
- Ability to prioritize responsibilities and have fun in a high-energy, fast paced work environment.
The position provides a very competitive salary and excellent benefits, including a generous 401 (k) plan. To apply for the position, please send a cover letter, resume and three references to SPLC. For more information about the position, contact Mary Bauer.