The National Senior Citizens Law Center (NSCLC) is a non-profit dedicated to obtaining justice for America's low-income elderly and people with disabilities, with an emphasis on problems affecting people of color and women. National and state advocacy efforts focus on access to health care, income support, long-term care, and access to the courts. Advocacy includes litigation, policy, technical assistance and training for attorneys and other advocates nationwide in a variety of subject areas including Medicaid, long-term care, Social Security, and federal court jurisdiction.



NSCLC's Federal Rights Project (FRP) was established in 2001 in response to a series of Supreme Court decisions restricting congressional and judicial authority to protect individual rights under federal law. The FRP works to preserve the ability of courts and Congress to protect the health, economic security and civil rights of individuals under federal law. The FRP monitors and provides strategic analyses of legal and legislative developments, offers training and assistance to litigators and support for policy advocates, promotes media, congressional, and public awareness of the gravity of current threats to court access, and advocates for legislation and policies to counter such threats. The FRP is not limited to senior issues but rather works to strengthen access to justice for all individuals. The FRP also maintains a listserv, which provides recent case developments, strategy articles, and a forum for discussion of issues affecting access to federal court to enforce rights under federal law, including rights under civil rights and public benefits statutes.



The Position: NSCLC is expanding its Federal Rights Project and seeks an attorney to assist with public policy advocacy. The position, located in Washington, D.C., involves research, analysis, preparation of briefing materials for varied audiences, drafting of articles for electronic or print distribution, participation in policy and legislative advocacy coalitions, and liaison with Congressional staff. The attorney may also assist with the Project's legal advocacy and technical assistance to legal services providers. The position is full-time, but part-time scheduling may be considered. Salary will be set depending on experience and is competitive with other public interest organizations. Benefits include medical, dental, and disability coverage, plus retirement and leave.



Qualifications: The ideal candidate must demonstrate extremely high-caliber legal research and writing skills, a genuine commitment to working for poor and underserved populations, and an ability to take initiative and work independently. Prior policy advocacy experience is preferred but not required. Candidate must be computer-proficient, highly organized, able to juggle and prioritize multiple demands, and have a confident public presence. The ability to work well under pressure, to work internally as a team member and externally as an effective representative, and excellent communication skills, are also required. Position open until filled.



To Apply: Send cover letter, résumé, original writing samples, and three professional references to: NSCLC, 1444 Eye St., NW, Suite 1100, Wash. D.C. 20005; or send it to KuKu Smith, ksmith@nsclc.org. No calls please. NSCLC is an equal opportunity employer and recognizes the value of diversity in the workplace.