DC LAW STUDENTS IN COURT (LSIC) invites applications for a full-time Supervising Attorney for its Criminal Defense Clinic to begin July, 2019. The Attorney will co-teach and supervise certified students in a clinical legal education program focused on misdemeanor criminal defense litigation.

About DC Law Students in Court:

Created in 1969, LSIC is the oldest and a highly regarded clinical program in the District of Columbia. LSIC is a nonprofit poverty law firm and clinical education program that draws students from area law schools in Washington, DC. Since our founding, LSIC has trained law students to provide free, high-quality legal services to the District’s low-income community. We are on a mission to empower individuals to stand up against injustice and inspire the next generation of social justice advocates.

LSIC embraces diversity as a core value. We recognize that our success as an organization depends on creating and maintaining a diverse team of talented professionals, and we are committed to a workplace that reflects and supports diverse individual backgrounds and perspectives. Our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and non-discrimination includes race, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, personal appearance, genetic information, political affiliation, marital status, family responsibilities, disability and status as a veteran, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws or regulation. We strive to have a workplace that is comfortable and welcoming for everyone.

Position Responsibilities:

Under the guidance and supervision of experienced criminal defense attorneys, students in the Criminal Defense Clinic are responsible for all aspects of client representation including interviewing clients, conducting fact investigation and legal research, writing and arguing motions, engaging in pretrial discovery, trying cases, negotiating plea agreements and assisting clients with probation revocations, where applicable. Through reading assignments, mock hearings, reflection, and actual representation, students learn how to develop a case theory and the skills needed for outstanding representation.

The Criminal Defense Clinic offers a learning environment that focuses on case preparation, courtroom experience and one-on-one working relationships with experienced criminal defense attorneys. Supervision and instruction emphasize litigation strategy, the skills necessary for effective lawyering, and zealous client-centered representation.

Responsibilities of a supervising attorney include: 1) supervising second- and third-year law students in their criminal misdemeanor cases in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia; 2) planning and teaching classes in lawyering and advocacy skills and substantive criminal law and procedure, and professionalism; 3) providing direct client representation; 4) completing administrative and other clinical work such as recruiting students and possibly training and mentoring pro bono attorneys. Related duties include attending staff meetings, participating in agency fundraising and development opportunities and events, overseeing the accurate and complete input of data in the office’s case management system, and providing input and comment regarding student grades.

Qualification Requirements:

The Supervising Attorney must be a member of the D.C. Bar, have prior criminal defense experience, excellent communication skills, ability to work independently and as part of a team, and have a desire to teach and mentor. Preferred qualifications include at least five years’ criminal defense and/or clinical teaching experience, supervising experience, Spanish language skills, experience practicing criminal defense in federal court(s), and prior experience in poverty law.  LSIC alumni are encouraged to apply.

Accountability: Reports to the Criminal Division Director

Hours and Salary: This is a full-time position based on a 40-hour work week. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Benefits: We offer an excellent benefits package for this full-time position including employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous sick leave, annual leave, and personal leave and paid federal holidays.

To Apply: Each candidate should submit a cover letter and resume by email to Santha Sonenberg, Interim Director, Criminal Division at ssonenberg@dclawstudents.org. Please indicate “Supervising Attorney, [your full name]” in the subject of the email.

Application Deadline: Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.