Civil Rights Trial Attorney

A law firm in Chicago, IL, is actively seeking a passionate and experienced Civil Rights Trial Attorney committed to civil rights and criminal justice. The role involves building strong relationships with clients affected by miscarriages of justice, evaluating and investigating cases, managing discovery, drafting briefs, preparing for and leading trials, arguing appellate cases, and supervising junior attorneys and paralegals. The ideal candidate should possess a deep commitment to public interest law, civil rights, and criminal justice, along with a proven track record of success in trial and litigation.

Duties:

• Build strong relationships with clients impacted by miscarriages of justice, focusing on wrongful convictions, police misconduct, and prisoners' rights, including class actions.
• Evaluate and investigate cases for merit, conducting thorough legal research.
• Manage and conduct discovery, ensuring the collection of relevant evidence.
• Draft and edit briefs at all stages of litigation, from pleadings to appellate submissions.
• Prepare cases for trial, lead trial teams, and argue appellate cases.
• Supervise, mentor, and support junior attorneys and paralegals.
• Contribute to a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the firm.
• Develop and maintain relationships with community stakeholders.

Requirements:

• Eight years of trial and litigation experience with a proven track record of success.
• Demonstrated commitment to public interest law, civil rights, and/or criminal justice.
• Depth of knowledge and experience in civil rights and/or criminal justice.
• Exceptional writing skills for drafting briefs and legal documents.
• Excellent communication and client relationship skills.
• Licensed in Illinois and/or able to waive into Illinois.

Education:

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• License to practice law in Illinois.

Skills:

• Strong trial and litigation skills.
• Legal research and investigative abilities.
• Supervisory and mentoring skills.
• Advocacy and appellate argumentation.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Relationship-building with clients and community stakeholders.