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National Legal Aid & Defender Association · 2 days ago

Policy Counsel, Criminal Defense Practice

Washington, United States

Full-time

Onsite

Mid Level

The National Legal Aid & Defender Association is a community-based public defense office located in Harlem. They are seeking a Policy Counsel to lead legal reform efforts for the Criminal Defense Practice, focusing on policy advocacy and legislative changes that impact the communities they represent.

LegalNon Profit

Senior Management

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain expertise in relevant policy areas for the Criminal Defense Practice

Collaborate with the Data Specialist to analyze case data to inform our policy agenda

Work with the Managing Attorney and communications staff to coordinate responses to policy inquiries from external partners, system stakeholders, and the press

Collaborate with staff, community partners, clients and impacted persons to identify and address policy issues affecting the people and communities we represent

Advise policymakers on the impact of proposed legislative changes on the people and communities we represent and lobby to advance NDS’s policy agenda

Facilitate staff engagement and participation in policy advocacy efforts

Assist in drafting legislation with elected officials and advocacy partners

Lead preparation and delivery of testimony for relevant legislative hearings

Manage and maintain relationships with key policymakers in the field

Coordinate with other staff working on community organizing and public education efforts

Assist in representing NDS in city, state, and national reform coalitions

Participate in developing and evaluating policy positions in consultation with counterparts at other public defender offices, advocacy organizations, grassroots organizations and other stakeholders

Represent a reduced caseload of clients on misdemeanor and felony charges in Criminal and Supreme Court