Legal Officer - Open Society Justice Initiative

Competitive Salary + Excellent Benefits

London or New York

Do you want to help make the world a better place with your practical litigation experience in human rights or public interest cases? We are seeking a Legal Officer based in London or New York, with strong research and drafting skills who can develop and execute strategies of complex litigation.

The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and inclusive democracies whose governments are accountable and open to the participation of all people. We are active in more than 120 countries, making us the world’s largest private funder of independent groups working for justice, democratic governance, and human rights.

The Open Society Justice Initiative (JI) uses strategic litigation and other kinds of legal advocacy to defend and promote the rule of law and to advance human rights. We employ litigation, advocacy, research, and technical assistance across a range of issues.

As a Legal Officer at Open Society, you will:

• Conceptualize strategic human rights litigation on areas of JI’s priorities, especially those relating to criminal and regulatory law; develop and execute strategy on assigned cases;
• Manage litigation strategy for complex human rights cases, including leading/overseeing specific-case litigation teams of lawyers and experts;
• Undertake legal and factual research into complex issues of human rights law and procedure;
• Draft legal applications, briefs, pleadings and other documents for submission to domestic and international administrative forums, tribunals and courts, and support other Justice Initiative lawyers in the same activities;
• Provide technical assistance and strategic advice to professional clients, project partners, and external organizations (NGOs) involved in strategic litigation by providing advice on substantive legal questions, procedure before human rights courts and tribunals and analysis of individual cases;
• Ensure appropriate professional standards and client care protocols in all Justice Initiative litigation.

We are looking for someone with a degree in Law with substantial post-qualification experience and a solid background in litigation. Demonstrated experience in conceptualizing, managing complex human rights litigation and litigation teams, ability to conduct research, write and edit a range of different materials including reports, legal documents, blogs and submissions for different audiences. Proficiency in French and English, with strong written and oral communication skills in both languages.

We offer ample opportunities to learn and grow, from annual professional development allowances to onsite trainings and brown bag lunches with visiting experts. Along with excellent benefits and perks designed for your well-being and a healthy work-life balance.

For further information and to apply, please visit our website: https://osfglobal.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/OSF/job/London/Legal-Officer--Open-Society-Justice-Initiative_JR-0001727

Closing date: 29 February 2020.

We aim to build an inclusive workforce that is reflective of the populations we support, and actively seek applications from those who are marginalized and underrepresented. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and colleagues with disabilities.