Click here for pdf

Position Summary

This is a one year position to begin in August 2008 for a recent J.D. law school graduate. The ABA/Avon National Domestic Violence Law Fellow will work at the American Bar Association Commission on Domestic Violence in its Washington, DC office.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop a comprehensive on line, searchable, directory of the programs providing pro bono legal services to victims of domestic violence throughout the U.S. including the types of cases – e.g., immigration, housing, protection order, family law – the scope of representation, the frequency and content of trainings for pro bono attorneys and the on-going supervision and/or support provided to pro bono attorneys
• Develop the necessary research tools including interview and survey questions and conduct in depth research to obtain the names of pro bono programs, the contact information for the programs, the dates and contents of upcoming trainings for pro bono attorneys seeking to represent victims of domestic violence, the types of cases pro bono attorneys handle, how the pro bono program provides on going support to pro bono attorneys, and the ways that victims may contact the programs for legal assistance.
• Identify the most effective way to make this information available to prospective pro bono attorneys and survivors of domestic violence seeing pro bono legal assistance including but not limited to an on-line searchable directory and create those mechanisms.
• Identify places where there are gaps in the provision of pro bono legal services; link existing programs to address these gaps and help identify funding and support for additional programs.
• Identify opportunities for collaboration among pro bono programs to pool their resources for trainings by conducting trainings together, for example.
• Disseminate ABA resources and expertise to pro bono programs and identify opportunities for collaboration on future trainings for pro bono attorneys

Minimum Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from a U.S. law school awarded in 2007 or 2008
• Licensed to practice law in a U.S. state or candidate for July 2008 Bar exam.
• Knowledge of and demonstrated commitment to ending violence against women.
• Experience working with victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking.
• Ability to problem-solve, take initiative, exercise sound judgment, and work independently.
• Ability to interact professionally and effectively with co-workers, ABA members, legal services staff, law students and other peers.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrated skill in legal research, analysis and writing.
• Ability to complete assignments and responsibilities accurately and in a timely manner, often with strict and/or conflicting deadlines.
• Proficiency in computer applications including Microsoft Office Suite and Westlaw or other online research applications and an ability to use on line databases or a willingness to learn.
• Experience providing legal assistance to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking preferred.

This is a Full-time, Exempt position with a salary of $40,000 and excellent benefits.

To Apply
Send cover letter, resume, legal writing sample in which you describe your thoughts about why the pro bono directory and resources described above are necessary and the best way to develop the directory of pro bono services and three references (names and current contact information) to Robin R. Runge, Director, ABA Commission on Domestic Violence, at runger@staff.abanet.org.

Please, no phone calls.

Deadline to apply: December 7, 2007

Interviews will be conducted mid to late February.