Overview
An experienced attorney is sought to join a Civil Rights Team focused on disability rights within criminal legal systems. The role involves civil rights litigation and advocacy addressing the disproportionate harm caused by criminal systems and incarceration to people with disabilities in Illinois. Responsibilities include litigating individual and systemic cases, monitoring facilities, investigating rights violations, and advocating for people with disabilities in jails, prisons, and related criminal justice settings. Strategies used range from informal legal assistance and advice to negotiations and formal litigation.
Responsibilities
- Advance the civil rights of people with disabilities affected by criminal legal systems through individual and systemic advocacy.
- Manage a diverse workload including client interviews, legal advice, informal advocacy, formal investigations, negotiations, and litigation.
- Develop and implement effective strategies on disability rights issues aligned with organizational priorities.
- Conduct jail and prison monitoring investigations and engage with clients and stakeholders, primarily in Southern and Central Illinois.
- Provide person-centered advocacy informed by the lived experiences of clients with disabilities.
- Collaborate with a team handling systemic class actions, police consent decree enforcement, forensic legal proceedings, institutionalization issues, and criminal court advocacy related to disability needs.
Requirements
- Experience in civil rights litigation and advocacy, particularly related to disability rights and criminal legal systems.
- Ability to manage a significant and varied caseload efficiently.
- Strong skills in client communication, legal advice, investigation, negotiation, and litigation.
- Willingness and ability to travel throughout Illinois, focusing on Southern and Central regions.
- Commitment to person-centered advocacy and engagement with people with disabilities.
Location
- The position is primarily remote.
- Candidates may be located anywhere in Illinois.
Reporting
- Reports to a Managing Attorney on the Civil Rights Team.
About the Organization
The organization has a 40-year history of advancing the human and civil rights of people with disabilities across Illinois. It serves as the Protection & Advocacy system for the state, monitoring facility conditions and addressing abuse, neglect, and civil rights violations. The Civil Rights Team focuses on community integration, anti-discrimination, and combating the criminalization of people with disabilities through legal advocacy and litigation.