Human Rights Investigator
The Southern Center for Human Rights invites applications for an investigator/paralegal to work on death penalty cases.
The Center, a non-profit, public interest legal project, has defended the human and civil rights of the condemned and imprisoned throughout the South since 1976. Attorneys with the Center represent poor, minority, and disadvantaged persons facing the death penalty at trials, on appeal, and in post-conviction proceedings. In addition, Center attorneys represent those confined to prisons and jails in federal class action litigation challenging unconstitutional conditions and practices. The Center is also involved in public education and advocacy. The Center is made up of ten attorneys, a director, an associate director, eight investigator/paralegals, three support staff, and a varying number of student interns and volunteers. For more information about the Center, see our website at www.schr.org.
Responsibilities of the investigator include investigating the facts and circumstances of crimes and the life and backgrounds of clients facing the death penalty. Duties include: locating and interviewing witnesses; assisting in the preparation of a client’s social and life history, including instances of mental illness, mental retardation, poverty, substance abuse, and childhood abuse and neglect; obtaining records and other documentary evidence; interviewing clients; organizing information for use by attorneys, mental health professionals, and other experts; coordinating the appearances of witnesses at hearings and trials; and any other work necessary to defend the Center’s clients.
Additional Qualifications:
The Center is seeking applicants who are highly motivated, well organized, independent, and able to take initiative. Applicants should be willing to travel extensively in Georgia, Alabama, and elsewhere; capable of working while traveling and with little direct supervision; able to write clearly and concisely; trustworthy with confidential information; willing to work long hours, including weekends, when needed; willing and capable of working alone on assignments; and committed to the Center's work. A background in social work, pre-law studies, journalism, or mental health may be helpful, but is not required. The Center seeks a commitment of at least three years.
How to Apply:
Please send a resume, writing sample, and the names and telephone numbers of three references to: Shelby Smith, Associate Director, at 83 Poplar Street, Atlanta, GA 30303-2122, or to ssmith@schr.org. No phone calls. Deadline to apply is May 12.
Job posted on: April 24, 2006