Legal Fellow - Economic Mobility - Council of State Governments

Who we are:

The Council of State Governments Justice Center works across the country to develop research-driven strategies to increase public safety and strengthen communities. To further this mission, we work with partners inside and outside of government to reduce crime and incarceration among youth and adults in contact with the justice system. We bring people from diverse systems and perspectives together to improve policy and practice. And we transform data and research findings into meaningful insights for decision-makers.

We're focused on three strategic goals:

• Break the cycle of incarceration.
• Advance health, opportunity, and equity.
• Use data to improve safety and justice.

When you join the CSG Justice Center, you join an organization that is uniquely positioned to cultivate innovation and drive data-driven reform nationally. We have approximately 120 employees-expected to grow to about 150 by the end of this year-based in more than 20 states who have decades of experience working in and with criminal, juvenile, and Tribal justice agencies. We have provided housing, mental health, and addiction services; served as educators and in workforce development agencies; and supported victims and survivors of crime. We have served governors, state legislators, and members of Congress on both sides of the political spectrum. What binds us together is a shared commitment to our mission; to one another; to a common set of values; and to the national, bipartisan advisory board that guides our work.

Learn more about careers at the CSG Justice Center.

How you'll fit in:

The legal fellow will assist in researching policies in each of the 50 states dealing with collateral consequences of conviction and mechanisms to mitigate their impact. The fellow will also provide support to senior staff in identifying and analyzing national best practices and support the advancement of state policies that promote expanded access to opportunities for people with criminal histories.

The legal fellow's responsibilities include researching policies related to collateral consequences and criminal record clearance in all U.S. jurisdictions; gathering relevant laws and policies; conducting statutory analysis for a large volume of legislative and regulatory data; summarizing relevant policies into user-friendly language; and assisting senior staff in developing materials and engaging policymakers to conduct technical assistance to states. This position will be a one-year commitment with the possibility of an additional year based on funding.

What you'll do:

Specific responsibilities of the Legal Fellow include the following:

• Gather, review, and analyze state policies relating to collateral consequences and other restrictions that affect people with criminal records.
• Gather, review, and analyze state policies relating to criminal record clearance and other policies that mitigate the impact of a criminal record.
• Strategize with senior staff on ways to promote policies that increase access to opportunities for people with criminal records.
• Provide administrative support to senior staff for state-based technical assistance.
• Ensure that senior staff and other colleagues are aware of relevant project developments.
• Participate actively in staff discussions and strategic planning meetings.
• Develop/expand a knowledge base on collateral consequences and the impact of a criminal record on employment, housing, and other areas of civilian life.

What you'll bring:

• Ability to interact effectively with diverse people in different contexts and foster equity and inclusion through self-awareness, cultural sensitivity, and valuing others
• Dedication to public service with an unfailing commitment to act with civility, be nonpartisan in performing CSG Justice Center duties, and be a responsible steward of member and donor funds
• JD, no bar admission needed, or MA in public policy, government, or equivalent
• At least one year of work experience, in the field of criminal justice or state policy
• Ability to conduct statutory research and translate information into user-friendly language
• Excellent organization skills and great attention to detail
• Ability to engage with high-level policymakers and stakeholders
• Strong oral communication skills, including the ability to effectively present complex information in a concise and accessible way
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including an ability to work independently and in a team setting
• Ability to quickly prioritize competing deadlines and confidently manage workload
• Reliable and secure internet/data connection and flexibility for using a personal device for internet connectivity during business travel. A cost offset is provided by CSG

How you apply:

If you're interested in helping us drive change across the country, you should upload the following elements with your application:

1. Cover letter
2. Resume
3. Writing sample
4. At least three professional references

We will consider all paid and unpaid experience relative to this position, including internships, fellowships, and volunteer activities.

CSG believes that pay equity and pay transparency advance workplace fairness. Compensation will be equitable and based on experience and geography. The starting salary for this position is $75,000. Salary ranges are subject to change based on work location and market conditions.

Our organization offers flexibility in work arrangements, allowing for remote work or a hybrid model. Candidates residing in the NYC metropolitan area will be considered for hybrid model employment.

To learn more about careers at the CSG Justice Center, and about our comprehensive benefit offerings, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, PSLF eligibility, and more, please visit our website here.

We welcome and value diversity in our staff, including race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, educational attainment, disability, protected veteran status, and personal experience with the criminal justice system.

CSG is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. CSG participates in E-Verify.