Job Description
We will begin reviewing applications on October 1, 2021. Bullet Points: - CLDC is seeking a California bar-licensed movement attorney with at least 3 years of criminal defense experience and a background in environmental and/or social justice movements. - This is a full-time, salaried position with benefits, exempt from overtime pay. - The attorney will work remotely and must be available for occasional travel, including overnights. - Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but early submissions are preferred. - CLDC is a nonprofit organization that provides litigation, education, and legal resources to support movements seeking to dismantle social inequality and environmental destruction. - The motto of CLDC is "We've got your back until all are free." - The organization has provided pro bono defense to over 5,500 activists and trained over 11,500 people in Know Your Rights & Risks. - The staff attorneys at CLDC have over 55 years of combined movement litigation experience and are also involved in intersectional movement organizing. - The movement attorney will report to the Legal Directors and work on all aspects of case work, including intake, drafting motions and briefs, and litigating cases at trial and on appeal. - They will also contribute to the Dissent & Democracy program by helping develop and present public education trainings. - Specific job responsibilities include client intake and communication, legal research and discovery, motion practice, trial practice, and working with legal teams and defendant groups. - The attorney must be able to work on cases pro hac vice and be willing to learn and apply new laws and court rules. - They will also provide Know Your Rights & Risks trainings and develop and revise CLDC-branded materials and movement legal resources. - The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to environmental and/or social justice movements, excellent people skills, and the ability to effectively communicate complex messages. - They must also be able to travel up to 12-30 days per year and lift up to 50 pounds on occasion. - Preferred qualifications include fluency in a second language, experience in community organizing or social justice activism, and a strong understanding of security culture and digital security. - The salary range for this position is $80,000 to $100,000, commensurate with experience. - CLDC offers a flexible work schedule, malpractice insurance, and generous paid time off and holidays. - Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, one month sabbatical after 5 years, and a tech/security budget. - As a nonprofit, CLDC employment qualifies staff for federal loan forgiveness. - The organization is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all staff are valued and respected, regardless of race, gender, religion, or other factors. - Qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered for employment. - To apply, interested candidates must submit a resume, cover letter, 2 writing samples, and 3 professional references. - All materials should be submitted in a single PDF to RMCKENZIE[at]cldc.org with the subject line "[Your last name] - Movement Attorney". - No phone calls, hard copies, or drop-ins will be accepted. - Technical difficulties or questions can be directed to office[at]cldc.org. - The organization will begin reviewing applications on October 1, 2021.
