Paralegal

Job Description

Everyone says they want to change the world. We're looking for people who actually will.

ADF International is a faith-based legal advocacy organization that protects fundamental freedoms and promotes the inherent dignity of all people. Please visit our career site to view our Statement of Faith and Doctrinal Distinctives.

Communications Officer

ADF International is looking for a highly organized Paralegal to join us in our Washington DC office. As a Paralegal, you are a vital part of the Global Religious Freedom Team. In this role, you will report to the Director of Advocacy for Global Religious Freedom. You will perform highly advanced and specialized legal assistant work. Work involves researching, drafting legal documents, and assisting attorneys with case management, including through helping to manage relationships with allied attorneys and publicizing legal work through the Communications and Development teams. Work independently with minimal supervision.

Your Essential Responsibilities

In this position, you will:

• Act in a confidential capacity to all ADF International attorneys.
• Know and understand international human rights law and ensure it is followed for each case.
• Work with allied attorneys to prepare case summaries and gather case updates.
• Prepare documents such as motions, memoranda of law, briefs, orders, and other legal documents.
• Draft memorandum regarding findings of research.
• Monitor the status of legislation and cases pertaining to religious persecution in priority countries in the Middle East and Africa.
• Perform legal research.
• Check citations in briefs and other legal documents to determine the accuracy of quoted material.
• Check citations to determine the accuracy of citation format according to the Bluebook, local court rules, or other citation guidelines.
• Build out a base of allied lawyers and organizations and manage contacts in the iReliance database.
• Maintain case file information and documents in the iReliance database.
• Prepare training materials for allied attorneys.
• Prepare case summaries and ensure approvals from all involved parties for Commications and Development teams.
• Attend and represent ADF International in meetings with allied organizations and government officials related to coordinated efforts to promote religious freedom globally.
• Proofread and edit drafted documents with a high level of expertise.
• Assist with special projects as needed.
  
  

Other Responsibilities (Non-Essential)

• You will be asked to perform related duties or special projects as assigned.
  
  

Skills You Need To Succeed

Demonstrated proficiency in:

• Strong legal research and analytical skills.
• Strong computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  
  

Ability To

• Ability to professionally handle confidential information.
• Make sound decisions under demanding conditions.
• Work independently with minimal supervision.
• Maintain heavy litigation caseload.
  
  

Education And/or Experience

• Paralegal degree or national certification or equivalent work experience.
• Requires 3 years of advanced experience performing paralegal duties.
  
  

Valid work permit for the US or US citizenship required.

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