Criminal Justice Reform Attorney (Post-Conviction)

National Legal Aid & Defender Association

Chicago (IL)

Hybrid

USD 90,000 - 117,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

Illinois Prison Project in Chicago seeks a Staff Attorney to represent incarcerated individuals in IDOC on commutation, medical release, and post-conviction matters. The ideal candidate is passionate about criminal legal reform, a creative thinker, and a strong writer; Illinois licensure is required and COVID-19 vaccination proof is required.

The role requires DOJ licensure, a JD, and 1–5 years of relevant experience, with a hybrid-remote work setup and travel within Illinois.

Qualifications

Have a Juris Doctorate degree from ABA-accredited law school.
Be licensed to practice law in Illinois by date of employment.
Have one to five years of practice experience, with experience preferably being in criminal law.
Have a deep commitment to criminal legal reform in Illinois and social, economic, and racial justice.
Be comfortable working with a wide variety of incarcerated clients, including clients with mental illness.
Be self-driven, creative, highly energetic, and innovative.
Have the ability to work collaboratively with staff, interns, and volunteers.
Have the ability to prioritize work, meet deadlines, and produce quality results.
Have the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both in writing and orally.
Be proficient using Google and Microsoft suite; prior experience with case management software a plus.
Have strong proofreading and detail-oriented research and writing skills.
Have the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Have the flexibility to work some evenings and weekends as required, including overnight trips.
Have the ability to commute to IPP’s office in Chicago and travel throughout the state for prison visits, parole board hearings, and other events.
Work Authorization: All candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Location: IPP maintains a hybrid work environment, including working remotely and out of IPP’s office at 53 West Jackson Blvd in Chicago, Illinois. The candidate for this position must live in or plan to relocate to the Chicagoland area by the time of hire.

Responsibilities

Advocate for incarcerated clients in criminal legal and quasi-legal matters, including in proceedings before judges, the Prisoner Review Board (PRB), the Department of Corrections, and Governor.
Collaborate with partner organizations and allies to build support for advocacy efforts, including commutation campaigns.
Meet regularly with policy makers, including members of the Prisoner Review Board, prosecutors, and agency staff.
Communicate regularly with incarcerated clients and their family members by phone, mail, and in-person.
Organize and track voluminous case materials, and maintain up-to-date client information in IPP’s case management system.