Director of Justice Relations

P.A.L.S. is currently supporting a federal clemency and advocacy matter involving an individual serving a lengthy federal sentence whose case includes documented concerns related to prosecutorial conduct, racial disparities, and constitutional issues.

A comprehensive case dossier has been assembled, and an executive clemency petition is currently pending. This engagement is focused on strategically advancing awareness and consideration of the case during a critical clemency review period.

We are seeking a seasoned advocate who understands how federal clemency, criminal justice reform, and government relations operate in practice not simply in theory. We need someone who has been in the room, understands the landscape, and possesses the relationships, credibility, and strategic judgment necessary to help elevate this case before key decision-makers.

IDEAL BACKGROUND:

Candidates may have experience with organizations such as FAMM, Equal Justice Initiative, Innocence Project, MacArthur Justice Center, Institute for Justice, sentencing reform initiatives, civil rights organizations, public policy organizations, congressional offices, or similar advocacy-focused institutions.

We welcome applicants from diverse professional backgrounds whose experience demonstrates the ability to navigate complex federal systems and effectively advocate for justice-related outcomes.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

• Develop and execute a strategic advocacy plan designed to elevate awareness and consideration of the case.
• Build and leverage relationships with relevant federal stakeholders, oversight bodies, congressional offices, criminal justice reform organizations, and other influential decision-makers.
• Engage national and regional criminal justice reform organizations to explore support, partnerships, endorsements, and advocacy opportunities.
• Assist in positioning the case for meaningful consideration throughout the federal clemency review process.
• Identify and pursue opportunities to increase awareness among policymakers, advocates, and organizations aligned with justice reform efforts.
• Represent P.A.L.S. professionally at meetings, conferences, conventions, and advocacy-related events.
• Participate in in-person meetings in Washington, DC, when strategically beneficial.
• Provide weekly progress reports documenting outreach efforts, key contacts, activities, outcomes, and recommended next steps.

WHAT YOU BRING:

• Significant experience in federal advocacy, government relations, criminal justice reform, clemency advocacy, public policy, or related fields.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and engage effectively with policymakers, advocacy organizations, legal stakeholders, and decision-makers.
• Strong understanding of the federal clemency process and the broader criminal justice reform landscape.
• Proven experience advancing advocacy initiatives, public awareness efforts, coalition-building activities, or justice-related campaigns.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining high levels of accountability, professionalism, and discretion.
• Deep commitment to justice, fairness, and meaningful reform.

ACCOUNTABILITY & PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

This is a results-oriented contract engagement with clearly defined expectations and deliverables.

• Weekly progress reports required.
• Formal 30-day performance review and strategic assessment.
• Ongoing communication regarding outreach efforts and advocacy activities.
• Contract renewal consideration based upon documented efforts, measurable progress, professionalism, and organizational needs.

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