Systemic Litigation Attorney: Racial Justice Focus

Michigan Poverty Law Program; Ypsilanti, Northern (MI, KY); Hybrid; USD 73,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental & vision

401K with employer match

Paid vacation

Paid holidays

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

The Michigan Poverty Law Program (MPLP) seeks a Systemic Litigation Attorney focused on racial justice for low-income Michiganders. The attorney will develop high-impact civil litigation across MPLP priorities, collaborating with legal aid, pro bono, law schools, and community groups to build lasting systemic change.

Based in Ypsilanti with a hybrid model, the role includes co-counseling, trainings, and creating resources to expand advocacy statewide.

Qualifications

• J.D. and licensed (or eligible to become licensed) to practice law in Michigan.
• Minimum 5 years legal experience.
• Ability to assume significant leadership in impact litigation.
• Demonstrated commitment to racial justice and knowledge of relevant law.
• Demonstrated ability to work with client groups and coalitions.
• Excellent legal research and writing skills.
• Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Identify, develop, and lead systemic litigation and appellate advocacy to improve health, safety, and economic security of low-income Michiganders, focusing on racial equity.
• Bring affirmative litigation and pursue appeals in state and federal court.
• Identify and implement strategies to challenge racialized systems and practices.
• Collaborate with MPLP attorneys, Michigan legal aid programs, community organizations, and national advocacy groups to advance systemic litigation.
• Organize trainings and create resources for legal aid advocates on systemic litigation topics.
• Provide legal and technical support to legislators, policymakers, and community organizations on racial justice and poverty law.

Skills

Legal research & writing

Oral communication

Independent & collaborative

Leadership in impact litigation

Strategic thinking

Education

J.D.

Job description

The Michigan Poverty Law Program (MPLP) seeks a Systemic Litigation Attorney focused on racial justice for low-income Michiganders. The attorney will develop high-impact civil litigation across MPLP priorities, collaborating with legal aid, pro bono, law schools, and community groups to build lasting systemic change.

Based in Ypsilanti with a hybrid model, the role includes co-counseling, trainings, and creating resources to expand advocacy statewide.