Staff Attorney - Criminal Justice Program

Overview

A partner organization is seeking a Staff Attorney for their Criminal Justice Program based in the United States. This remote role offers the opportunity to apply legal expertise to advance justice and protect vulnerable communities through impactful criminal law initiatives focused on animal cruelty cases.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal assistance to prosecutors and courtroom advocates by analyzing statutes, criminal procedures, and case strategies; draft legal memoranda, pleadings, motions, and trial preparation materials.
• Support law enforcement agencies, animal control professionals, and veterinarians with investigations by reviewing evidence, affidavits, warrants, expert testimony, and related documentation.
• Evaluate potential criminal cases, assess legal viability, and prepare communications outlining possible enforcement strategies.
• Gather and analyze case information from complainants, advocates, media sources, and other stakeholders to identify matters requiring further review.
• Oversee the preparation, editing, and submission of amicus curiae briefs and other legal advocacy documents.
• Assist with the development and review of legislation related to criminal animal protection laws at state and federal levels.
• Collaborate with legal, legislative, and communications teams on cases, policy initiatives, and criminal justice matters.
• Provide legal expertise internally by answering questions related to criminal procedures, litigation strategies, and emerging legal issues.
• Develop and deliver legal training sessions and presentations for prosecutors, law enforcement professionals, advocates, students, and other audiences.
• Support additional criminal justice projects, including initiatives related to criminal justice reform, sentencing approaches, and emerging legal challenges.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree with strong academic performance.
• Admission to practice law in at least one U.S. state.
• Exceptional legal research, writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities with capacity to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage deadlines across multiple projects.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, partners, and the public.
• Proficiency with digital tools and comfort working remotely.
• Positive, adaptable attitude and ability to contribute effectively within a team-based organization.
• Commitment to advancing legal protections and justice-focused initiatives.
• Ability to travel periodically for staff meetings, retreats, and professional events (approximately 1–3 trips annually).

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive starting annual salary based on geographic location:
  • $95,100 for most locations.
  • $100,105 for candidates within 25 miles of Washington D.C., Cotati, CA, or Los Angeles.
  • $105,110 for candidates within 25 miles of New York City or San Francisco.
• Comprehensive healthcare, dental, life, and vision benefits fully covered by the employer.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Dependent Care Account (DCA) options.
• 192 hours of paid time off (PTO).
• 19 paid holidays annually.
• One-month paid sabbatical after five years of continuous employment.
• 16 weeks of paid parental leave.
• 401(k) retirement plan with up to a 5% employer contribution match after one year.
• Alternative work schedules available based on manager approval.
• One-time remote work allowance of $750.
• Annual professional development reimbursement of up to $1,000.
• Remote work flexibility and emphasis on work-life balance.

Location

• Remote within the United States.
• Must be admitted to practice law in at least one U.S. state.
• Ability to travel occasionally (1–3 times per year) for meetings and events.