Staff Attorney (one-year term position)

The Second Look Project (“SLP”) is a 501(c)3 organization that provides direct representation and advocacy for individuals given extreme sentences in Washington, D.C. We also provide consultation, advice, and litigation support to other attorneys handling sentence reduction cases and are working to develop D.C. as a model for other jurisdictions seeking to implement similar reforms. This position is currently a one-year term position, with the potential of being renewed pending on funding.

SLP seek a passionate and skilled Staff Attorney to provide direct representation to individuals serving lengthy sentences in Washington, D.C. The Staff Attorney will work closely with clients seeking sentence reductions, while also supporting the organization’s broader advocacy and reentry efforts. This role is ideal for a dedicated legal professional committed to criminal justice reform and decarceration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Represent incarcerated individuals in sentence reduction motions under IRAA, compassionate release, and other methods of release available in D.C. Superior Court.
• Manage an active caseload.
• Move cases forward by ensuring timely filings, advancing case strategy, and meeting all applicable deadlines.
• Conduct legal research and writing, draft pleadings, and advocate in court hearings.
• Provide support and legal representation, as needed, to clients granted release while on probation or supervision.
• Maintain consistent communication with incarcerated clients, their families, and other stakeholders, ensuring clients are heard, respected, and supported.
• Provide support, training, and strategic guidance to pro bono and CJA attorneys, as needed.
• Collaborate with community partners to advance SLP’s mission and strengthen reentry pathways for returning citizens.

Qualifications:

• J.D. degree and active bar membership in D.C. or the ability to waive in.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in criminal defense, post-conviction litigation preferred.
• Strong legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize assignments.
• Passion for criminal justice reform, racial justice, and decarceration.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented, client-centered environment.
• Experience working with incarcerated individuals or marginalized communities is a plus.

Health insurance, 401(k) plan, commuter benefits, flexible leave, and

a hybrid work environment.