The National Center for Lesbian Rights is seeking a policy clerk to assist in NCLR’s federal and state policy and legislative work in Washington, D.C. The clerk’s responsibilities will include: legal and factual research and writing related to policy advocacy; tracking developments in pending LGBT-related legislation; reviewing and analyzing pending regulations, policy proposals, and legislative language; and participating in various coalition meetings related to law and policy changes and proposals.
The position is in NCLR’s Washington D.C. office located at 1100 H St. NW. During the fall and spring semesters, the position runs throughout the semester and requires a commitment of at least 12 hours per week. During the summer, the position is 40 hours per week and a commitment of at least 10 weeks is requested.
POLICY CLERK WASHINGTON DC NCLR
Qualifications
Candidates must be current law students and must have completed their 1L year. Preference will be given to applicants who have familiarity with LGBT-related issues, federal and/or state policy, and a dedication to social justice. Excellent communication and writing skills are essential as is the ability to take initiative and see projects through completion.
CompensationThe policy clerk position is unpaid, though matching work study funds may be available. NCLR encourages clerks to obtain outside funding or academic credit through their law school. Current law students who have financial need, and who are committed to practicing social justice and progressive civil rights law may apply for the C. Edwin Baker Clerkship. For more information visit here.
ApplicationsApplications are accepted on a rolling basis and early submissions are strongly encouraged.
Application Process
Send cover letter, resume, 3-5 page legal writing sample, and three work references by e-mail to Policy Counsel Ashland Johnson, AJohnson@NCLRights.org or fax at415.392.8442.
In 1977, a brave and determined woman, fresh out of law school and eager to make a difference, decided to put her knowledge to good use. As a legal scholar, Donna Hitchens saw the courtroom as a way to change the world. As a lesbian, she had experienced frustrations and fears—both personal and professional—and didn’t want others to suffer the same. As a future parent, she knew she would face even more challenges ahead.
The National Center for Lesbian Rights was born. Today, that pioneering spirit and unwavering commitment to advance LGBT equality continues. NCLR’s programs focus on employment, immigration, youth, elder law, transgender law, sports, marriage, relationship protections, reproductive rights, and family law create safer homes, safer jobs, and a more just world.
Each year, NCLR shapes the legal landscape for all LGBT people and families across the nation through its precedent- setting litigation, legislation, policy, and public education.
For more than three decades, NCLR has led historic cases, and it is still blazing trails in pursuit of justice, fairness, and legal protections for all LGBT people.
Highlights
Founded: 1977
Mission: NCLR is a national legal organization committed to advancing the civil and human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people and their families through litigation, legislation, policy, and public education.
What We Do: NCLR is a non-profit, public interest law firm that litigates precedent-setting cases at the trial and appellate court levels; advocates for equitable public policies affecting the LGBT community; provides free legal assistance to LGBT people and their legal advocates; and conducts community education on LGBT issues.
Who We Serve: NCLR serves more than 5,000 LGBT people and their families throughout the United States each year, including LGBT parents, seniors, immigrants, athletes, and youth.
Our Impact: NCLR’s legal, policy, and legislative victories set important precedents that improve the lives of all LGBT people and their families across the country. Our free legal assistance empowers individuals to assert their own legal rights. Our community and public education broadens public support for LGBT equality.
Projects and Legal Issue Areas Include: Asylum & Immigration; Elders; Employment; Family & Relationships; Federal Legislation & Policy; State Legislation & Policy; Hate Crimes; Healthcare; Housing; Low Income & Poverty; Prisons; Rural Communities; Sports; Transgender Law; and Youth.
Our Financials
Our 2013 budget was $5 million, 85% of which is spent directly on our legal programs and services. As for our revenue, 75% of our annual budget is raised from individual donors, with major gifts of $1,500 or more making up about 40% of our total income. Additional funding comes from foundations and corporations, along with pro-bono services contributed by co-counsel.
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