Criminal Justice - Staff Attorney 2/Chief Counsel

The American Bar Association (ABA) was founded on a commitment to advance the rule of law in the United States and beyond by providing practical resources for legal professionals, conducting law school accreditation, developing model ethics codes and more. Today, the ABA remains a member-based organization that works to ensure access to justice for all, a fair legal process, and respect for the rule of law at home and across the globe.

The ABA is committed to service and refining the standards that guide the legal profession. ABA staff are provided multiple types of continuing education and career development opportunities. Your work will help eliminate bias, enhance diversity, and advance the rule of law throughout the US and around the world.

The ABA recognizes the value staff contribute to our success through a generous benefits package that protects their health and their financial security.  The ABA’s wide array of benefit offerings include 401(k), medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health spending accounts, supplemental life and disability insurance, prepaid legal programs, and a complimentary membership to the American Bar Association, which offers additional benefits.

Flexible/hybrid work arrangements may be available for residents of CA, DC, IL, IN, IA, MD, MI, MN, TX, VA, and WI.  Residency requirements may apply. ABA employees are eligible to apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). 
 

Job Summary/General Purpose of Job

• The ABA Criminal Justice Section Standards position acts as the point person for Criminal Justice Section policy, and oversees each Standards and resolution effort from start to finish.  The Standards are an ongoing 60 + year project on best practices in criminal justice.   

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities

• Together with members, develop and promote ABA criminal justice policies, including the Criminal Justice Standards.
• Work with ABA and CJS Amicus Committees to find, develop and file amicus opportunities based on ABA criminal justice policies.
• Work with ABA Government Relations on legislation related to the Standards.
• Edit and arrange for publication Criminal Justice Standards..
• Supervise a part-time Assistant.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Required Education, Qualifications, Experience

• JD and admission to the bar in at least one jurisdiction.
• At least 4 years working in relevant specialized area of law.
• High level of skills in legal writing and research, oral and written communications, meeting facilitation, and organizational skills.
• Substantial experience in criminal justice law and policy analysis.

Preferred Education, Qualifications, Experience

• Budget, supervisory and publication experience is preferred, as well as website development experience.

• Assorted task force and other meetings require two to three days travel every other month.