The American Bar Association Death Penalty Representation Project is seeking a full-time Senior Attorney at the Project’s Washington, D.C. office. The ABA is committed to ensuring that those facing the ultimate punishment are provided with competent, adequately compensated counsel at every stage of the proceedings. The Project’s top priorities are: 1) enlisting law firms to represent indigent death-sentenced prisoners in post-conviction proceedings as pro bono counsel; and 2) reform of capital defender systems through systemic litigation and implementation of the ABA Guidelines for the Appointment and Performance of Defense Counsel in Death Penalty Cases.
The Senior Attorney will have a leading role in recruiting volunteer law firms, working with interested associates and partners to encourage them to accept a capital case or handle systemic litigation, and providing support and guidance once they have agreed to do so; serving as faculty at capital defender training programs; conducting extensive legal research about the failures of counsel systems in particular jurisdictions and investigating potential causes of action; gathering evidence, data and case law examples to support potential causes of action; drafting pleadings; working in collaboration with cooperating organizations, capital defenders, consultants and advisory committee members regarding litigation strategy; creating media and public education campaigns; ensuring effective communication with external and internal (ABA) partners; and performing other duties as assigned.
The ABA recognizes the value staff contribute to our success through a generous benefits package that protects their health and their financial security. The ABA’s wide array of benefit offerings include 401(k), medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health spending accounts, supplemental life and disability insurance, prepaid legal programs, and a complimentary membership to the American Bar Association, which offers additional benefits.
Flexible/hybrid work arrangements may be available for residents of CA, DC, IL, IN, IA, MD, MI, MN, TX, VA, and WI. Residency requirements may apply. ABA employees are eligible to apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).
The position requires some travel. Qualified applicants should have a law degree and be admitted in at least one U.S. jurisdiction; at least six years of substantive experience in death penalty litigation or related areas; a commitment to issues regarding indigent criminal defense and the death penalty; excellent legal research and writing skills; and the ability to work with a wide range of people and entities.
It is critical that the Senior Attorney be self-directed, work independently, and be capable of managing numerous projects under sometimes stressful conditions. Previous experience working with civil law firms or pro bono recruitment and fundraising experience are highly desirable.
Interested candidates should electronically send a resume, a cover letter highlighting their interest and experience, references, and an unedited writing sample at: https://us63.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-US/aba/Posting/View/2924.
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