Pro Bono Scholar Intern-Brooklyn

Disability Rights New York; New York (NY); On-site; Full time

Job description

EOE Statement We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

About the Organization

DRNY, the Protection and Advocacy System and the Client Assistance Program for New York State is seeking an individual with a passion for achieving justice for individuals with disabilities. With a focus on civil rights and disability justice, DRNY actively works to break down the systemic oppression of all people with disabilities. DRNY recognizes the intersecting legacies and effect of ableism, white supremacy, colonial capitalism, and gendered oppression on people with disabilities. Joining DRNY is an opportunity to challenge systemic abuse, neglect, discrimination, and rights violations through case-handling, individual and systemic litigation, public investigations, advocacy, and collaboration with stakeholders. DRNY is committed to examining bias, privilege, racism, and intersectional social change in all aspects of our work. DRNY is a civil rights advocacy leader and we are seeking new staff who will contribute to our values and mission.

Description

The Pro Bono Legal Intern utilizes the education, knowledge and experiences acquired during their undergraduate and graduate education. The fundamental purpose of an internship is to provide the student with practical experiences and an opportunity to enhance skills through active participation and involvement, direct exposure and engagement in a variety of functions. The Pro Bono Legal Intern will work closely with the various Staff Attorneys and staff members to prepare for a career in the legal field.

This is an unpaid internship. Interns may be eligible for academic course credit with school approval. Interns may also apply for funding from their school or other available sources. The internship can be full-time or part-time.

Essential Functions

The Pro Bono Legal Intern performs a wide range of duties, including the following:

• Assist Staff Attorneys with the preparation of legal documents for trials, hearings, and depositions;
• Attend trials, hearings, depositions, and related events;
• Provide critical research and feedback to the attorneys for any case, study, or assigned tasks;
• Conduct analysis on legal strategies for the various programs supported by DRNY;
• Proofread and provide content suggestions for legal documentation;
• Provide general legal support to the program attorneys;
• Other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in an accredited law school and have completed the law school coursework;
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word/Excel/Outlook/PowerPoint);
• Ability to write and present in a polished and professional manner;
• Strong communication skills;
• Must have highest standard of organization and attention to detail;
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities (preferred);
• Passionate about issues affecting individuals with disabilities (preferred);
• Excellent legal research skills;
• Commitment to the mission and vision of DRNY;
• Self‑motivated and able to work independently;
• Ability to prioritize and manage projects and tasks to meet deadlines; and
• Able to work remotely with personal internet access.

Working Conditions

• Work typically performed remotely with the majority of time spent working on a computer;
• This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, and phones;
• May have some travel within and outside the state as necessary for firsthand experience.

To view more about our organization, check out our YouTube videos highlighting DRNY's mission in advocating for the civil rights of individuals with disabilities. Please visit our DRNY YouTube Channel and review our DRNY Press Releases .

Position Requirements

Exempt/Non‑Exempt Exempt

Full‑Time/Part‑Time Full‑Time and/or Part‑Time

Location Disability Rights New York - Brooklyn

Position Pro Bono Scholar Intern

Number of Openings 1

This position is currently accepting applications.