Job Description

Career Opportunity: Staff Attorney with The Ohio Justice & Policy Center in Cincinnati, Ohio

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of those impacted by the criminal legal system? Do you have experience in litigation and a commitment to social justice? If so, we want you to join our team!

OJPC is a nonprofit law firm with offices in Cincinnati and Columbus, Ohio. We fight for equal justice and fair treatment in all stages of incarceration because every person deserves dignity after their conviction and freedom after their sentence. We offer a spectrum of free legal services, programs, and resources for people in all communities who lack essential support as they navigate the complexities of our criminal legal system. Learn more about OJPC’s mission by visiting:

Competitive benefits package including 27 PTO days, 13 paid holidays, plus an annual winter break between Christmas and New Year’s.

Job Description

As a Staff Attorney , you will work primarily on Beyond Guilt cases, identifying unfairly sentenced Ohio prisoners and fighting for their release. BG represents individuals who have served significant portions of their sentences, demonstrated rehabilitation, and have the support systems to continue their rehabilitation post-release. Whenever possible, BG partners with prosecutors, law enforcement officers, and crime survivors to help convince courts to release prisoners through various avenues.

In addition, as the Staff Attorney you will:

• Investigate and present cases and clients for the parole board (both parole and clemency).
• Prepare and file judicial release motions.
• Investigate cases for postconviction filings in state and/or federal court.
• Work with prosecutors to reduce sentences.
• Manage a caseload with approximately 75% BG clients and 25% assisting the Litigation Director with civil rights actions through the Human Rights in Prison (HRIP) project.
• Assist with applying for grants and completing portions of grant reporting for BG and HRIP.
• Supervise interns and attend community/speaking events to educate the public on OJPC's work.

Qualifications

MINIMUM

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 1-2 years of litigation experience on behalf of indigent defendants or others accused/convicted of crimes (preference for 3-5 years litigation experience on behalf of indigent defendants or others accused/convicted of crimes and experience conducting postconviction factual/mitigation re-investigations).
• A demonstrated and abiding commitment to social justice.
• Experience dealing with administrative bureaucracy.
• Ability to drive to prisons and courts across the state of Ohio as needed. 
• Bilingual (Spanish) is a plus.
• Strong research, writing, analytic, and advocacy skills.
• Client-centered legal representation; commitment to indigent defense and criminal legal system reform.
• Ability to supervise students and paralegals constructively.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, the ability to build relationships with diverse backgrounds, work independently and as part of a team. 

Additional Information

Join our dedicated team and help drive transformative change for those who need it most. You can make a real difference in our community.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this position. Apply online at 

Employer is EOE/M/F/D/V. No third-party candidates please.

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