January 2011 -- The Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law seeks an attorney with at least 5-7 years of experience to help develop and litigate ground-breaking cases that advance the rights of adults and children with mental disabilities. The Bazelon Center, a national advocacy organization founded in 1972, is a leader in promoting community integration and self-determination for people with mental disabilities, including by reforming public service systems. The Bazelon Center’s staff includes six lawyers, four policy advocates, and other professionals.
Current litigation priorities include: implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act’s integration mandate, preventing the incarceration of individuals with mental illnesses, securing a quality education for children with challenging behavior, and enforcing entitlements under the Medicaid Act. In addition to working in trial courts, Bazelon Center attorneys engage in Supreme Court and other appellate advocacy, lobby federal agencies, and provide support to state-based advocacy organizations.
Applicants should have litigation experience, excellent analysis and writing skills, and a strong commitment to civil rights. Experience in public interest litigation, especially litigation advancing disability rights, is a plus.
Salary depends on qualifications and experience. Excellent benefits, including flexible schedule. Individuals with disabilities and members of other minority groups are encouraged to apply. To apply, please submit a cover letter explaining your qualifications for the position and a resume, a list of references, and two writing samples to:
Ira Burnim, Legal Director
Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law
1101 15th Street, N.W., Suite 1212
Washington, D.C. 20005
irab @ bazelon.org
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The job remains open if listed at http://bazelon.org/Who-We-Are/Careers-and-Internships.aspx.