Counsel, Democracy Program at the Brennan Center for Justice, NYU Law

The Brennan Center for Justice at New York University School of Law is a non-partisan public policy and law institute that focuses on the fundamental issues of democracy and justice. Our work ranges from voting rights to campaign finance reform, from racial justice in criminal law to presidential power in the fight against terrorism. A singular institution – part think tank, part public interest law firm, part advocacy group – the Brennan Center combines scholarship, legislative and legal advocacy, and communications to win meaningful, measurable change in the public sector.

Position: The Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law is seeking three attorneys to work in the Brennan Center’s Democracy Program. The Program seeks to bring the ideal of representative self-government closer to reality, by eliminating barriers to full and equal political participation and by striving to ensure that public policy and institutions represent and reflect the diverse voices and interests that make for a rich and energetic democracy.

These positions may focus on voting rights and election reform (including practices likely to suppress the vote and have a disproportionate impact on communities of color); money in politics, including managing current constitutional litigation defending state and federal campaign finance reforms; integrity of the judicial system; and/or redistricting. Ideally, the positions will commence in June 2011 or soon afterward.

Qualifications: We are looking to hire three attorneys, with experience ranging from two years of legal experience and up. For one position, we prefer a candidate with six or more years of litigation experience. The ideal candidates will have a J.D.; several years of legal experience (including clerkships, if any) in the private sector, government, academia, or policy advocacy; and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Excellent writing skills (for a variety of audiences, including legal, legislative, journalistic, and public), as well as excellent analytic, strategic, and research skills; creativity, versatility, and flexibility; organizational skills; and the ability to deal with diverse clients and allies and to coordinate work effectively with other entities will be required. Demonstrated commitment to the public interest field a real plus.

The Brennan Center, an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, is strongly committed to diversity and welcomes applicants of all races, ethnicities, genders, and sexual orientations, and applicants who have been previously incarcerated.

Salary: Commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, and decisions will be made as soon as appropriate candidates are identified. To apply, visithttp://brennancenter.theresumator.com/apply/u0zDNq/Counsel-Democracy-Program.html?source=idealist . Please upload (where it says “attach resume”) as one document the following application materials: cover letter, resume, two writing samples (up to 10 pages each), and contact information for three references. If you have difficulty with the online system, you may send your application by e-mail to: brennancenterjobs@nyu.edu with “Democracy Attorney” in the subject line, after registering in the online system.