idealist.org

Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund (TLDEF) is seeking a staff attorney to work on issues of discrimination based upon gender identity and expression, and to provide legal support to our Name Change Project. One to three years of relevant litigation experience, civil rights practice or work in the transgender community strongly preferred.

TLDEF is a not-for-profit civil rights law firm committed to ending discrimination based upon gender identity and expression and to achieving equality for transgender people through public education, test-case litigation, direct legal services, community organizing and public policy efforts.

The Name Change Project provides free and low-cost legal name changes to community members through TLDEF’s partnerships with some of New York City’s most prestigious law firms.

Responsibilities:
The staff attorney will be working in a busy social justice law practice, using a range of advocacy strategies, including litigation, direct legal services through the Name Change Project, legislative advocacy & policy reform, media, public education, community organizing, and advocacy with administrative agencies. The docket will include a range of civil rights issues in access to public accommodations, including health care, housing, and employment, as well as the provision of legal support to the Name Change Project.

Criteria:
Applications are encouraged from attorneys with one to three years of relevant litigation experience. Applicants must demonstrate commitment to the struggle against discrimination based on gender identity and expression, and to achieving equality for transgender people. Applicants must have top litigation skills, determination, and a passion for working with and on behalf of transgender and gender non-conforming people. Excellent writing, analytic and public speaking skills are essential, as is the ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment. The ability to speak Spanish is a strong plus.

TLDEF is an affirmative action employer. Transgender and gender non-conforming people, lesbians, gay men, people of color and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please send applications to TLDEF, 151 West 19th Street, Suite 1103, New York, NY 10011. Applications by email to info@transgenderlegal.org are encouraged. Applications must include a cover letter, resume, writing sample and three references (including daytime telephone numbers). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, but must be submitted by December 1, 2009.