The Detroit Justice Center (DJC), The Detroit Justice Center (DJC), renowned for its innovative approach to community law practice, is currently offering a contract position for a Contract Attorney.
DJC is founded on the belief that we cannot build cities that work for everyone without remedying the impacts of mass incarceration and transforming our justice system.
This position is a unique opportunity to support DJC in its mission to deliver community lawyering services, create economic opportunities, and promote just cities.
We have established a set of values to guide our work, and we seek an attorney who will deeply align with them.Our mission is multifaceted: providing exceptional legal services, fostering economic opportunities, and promoting systemic change for a just society.
Position Overview:
As a Contract Attorney, you will play a pivotal role in empowering our clients to overcome legal barriers related to incarceration or court involvement.
You will be part of our Legal Services & Advocacy Practice (LSAP), a team committed to increasing access to housing, employment, family reunification, and financial stability for low-income communities in Detroit.
This position offers a dynamic environment where you will engage in innovative community lawyering, directly contributing to DJC's broader vision of fostering Just Cities.
Key Responsibilities: Conduct client interviews and analyze case materials to pinpoint legal issues and devise effective strategies.
Develop and communicate comprehensive case strategies to clients and the Managing Attorney, ensuring clarity and efficacy.
Provide legal advice, counsel, and representation in areas such as: Criminal law, particularly in matters aligning with DJC's systemic reform goals (e.g., suspended driver's licenses, criminal record expungement).
Housing law, including issues like illegal or improper evictions.
Family law, covering child support, custody, and guardianship.
Prepare and file legal documents, including pleadings, memoranda, briefs, and motions.
Collaborate with DJC staff in conducting community workshops and clinics on legal rights and relevant topics.
Maintain organized case files and database systems, adhering to guidelines set by the Managing Attorney.
Identify systemic issues for broader advocacy efforts and communicate these to the Managing Attorney.
Engage in advocacy work to support policy reforms and community initiatives that align with DJC's mission and provide direct legal representation to clients.
Participate in DJC's public relations, development, communications, and storytelling projects.
Qualifications: A passionate commitment to social, economic, and criminal justice, with a focus on community-oriented legal work.
Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
Proactive, problem-solving mindset with a flair for creative and collaborative legal solutions.
Proven ability to manage time efficiently and meet tight deadlines without compromising quality.
Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
J.D.
degree and a valid license from the State Bar of Michigan.
3-5 years of relevant litigation experience, preferably in family and housing law.
Contract Terms:
This is a contract position with a rate of $45.00 per hour.
While this role does not include benefits, it offers a flexible hybrid work arrangement.
DJC is committed to the principle of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO).
We encourage and welcome applicants of any race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, class, religion, ability, or ideology to apply for this position.
We actively seek applicants who identify as BIPOC, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and persons with disabilities.
We are committed to ensuring that each team member has the resources they need to succeed and will provide reasonable accommodations within our capacity.
Application Process:
To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and references as a single .pdf or .doc file.
Click on "Apply for this position" in the upper right-hand corner of the application page.
We encourage early applications, with a final deadline of Monday, October 28, 2024.
The anticipated start date for this position is November 11, 2024.