Equal Rights Advocates’ Ruth Chance Law Fellow is an entry level position for a recent J.D. law school graduate. As a member of the legal services team at ERA, the Ruth Chance Law Fellow serves as a Staff Attorney and oversees the Advice and Counseling Program, assists other attorneys with litigation and special projects, and participates in public education efforts.  Applications for the 2014-2015 Fellowship should be postmarked by October 28, 2013.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee and coordinate Advice & Counseling program, including orienting and coordinating ERA (student) law clerks.  Work with law students and attorneys in providing information, advice and representation to women who have been discriminated against on the basis of sex and/or race in employment and/or educational opportunities.
• Participate in public hearings and conferences, press relations, writing articles for ERA publications.
• Assist Staff Attorneys with ongoing litigation and special projects. Tasks include, but are not limited to: interviewing clients and potential witnesses; drafting and responding to discovery requests; researching and drafting briefs, motions and supporting exhibits; preparing for or participating in depositions; and organizing files and documents.
• Oversee, coordinate and lead “Know Your Rights” training sessions and other public workshops or presentations.
• Oversee and coordinate substantive updates of “Know Your Rights” brochure series, “Know Your Rights” presentation training materials, law student orientation materials, and Advice and Counseling resource materials.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor from a U.S. law school awarded in 2013 or 2014
• Licensed to practice law in California or candidate for July 2014 Bar exam.
• Knowledge of and demonstrated commitment to women’s rights and legal issues affecting women.
• Knowledge of and demonstrated commitment to civil rights and legal issues affecting people of color and other disadvantaged populations.
• Dedicated team player with a commitment to collaboration and the highest level of client service.
• Ability to problem-solve, exercise sound judgment, work independently and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to interact professionally and effectively with co-workers, board members, volunteers, clients, outside counsel, court personnel, organization donors and guests.
• Demonstrated commitment to and involvement with community concerns.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrated skill in legal research, analysis and writing.
• Ability to complete assignments and responsibilities accurately and in a timely manner, often with strict and/or conflicting deadlines.
• Proficiency in computer applications including Microsoft Office Suite and Westlaw or other online research applications.
• Bilingual (English + Spanish, Cantonese or Vietnamese) preferred.

The Ruth Chance Law Fellow is a one or two year (renewable by mutual agreement) position beginning August 2015. This is a full-time, exempt position with a salary of 45,000 and excellent benefits, including three weeks paid vacation.

To Apply

Send cover letter, resume, legal writing sample and three references (names and current contact information) to:

Ruth Chance Law Fellow Application
Equal Rights Advocates
180 Howard Street, Suite 300
San Francisco, CA 94105

These materials may be e-mailed to info@equalrights.org  with “Ruth Chance” in the subject line, or faxed to (415) 621-6744.

Please, no phone calls.

Deadline to apply: October 31, 2013   Interviews will be conducted in November and December.

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