Staff Attorney

Equip For Equality Inc. • Chicago, IL

3h • Onsite

About The Position

For 40 years, Equip for Equality has been advancing the human and civil rights of people with disabilities across Illinois. The organization has made Chicago public transportation more accessible, helped tens of thousands of people with disabilities move from institutions into the community, increased inclusive education and educational outcomes for students with disabilities, and enhanced safety and quality of care in various settings. Equip for Equality has offices throughout Illinois and comprises three teams: the Civil Rights Team, the Special Education Clinic, and the Independent Monitoring Unit. The dedicated staff includes over 40 attorneys, social workers, and administrative personnel committed to advancing the mission and fostering a welcoming workplace. The Civil Rights Team is currently seeking an experienced attorney to join its community integration self-determination practice group.

Requirements

• A law degree from an accredited law school
• A license to practice law in Illinois, or admission to the Illinois State Bar, within one year of employment
• A minimum of two years of legal practice
• Demonstrated commitment to civil rights and disability rights
• Strong written and oral communication and organizational skills, including for effective advocacy, collaborative work, litigation, and strategic planning
• Creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving approaches
• Ability to work collaboratively on a team as well as to self-direct

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with people with disabilities
• Fluency in Spanish
• Understanding of Medicaid Home and Community Based Waivers and guardianship laws

Responsibilities

• Advocacy and litigation promoting community integration to support individuals to live in the most integrated community setting
• Protecting the right to be free from abuse and neglect
• Advancing individuals’ legal rights in institutions and community settings
• Promoting self-determination and personal decision-making in the context of guardianship and other forms of substituted decision-making

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees