Program Overview
Law Clerks for the Disability Law Center (DLC) carry a case load of individual clients and interact with prospective clients, draft demand letters, attend mediations, file discrimination charges, and draft litigation documents under the supervision of staff attorneys. Law clerks may also assist with class action litigation,
systemic investigations, and will perform legal research on a wide range of cases and issues. Experience working with individuals with disabilities is preferred; however, the ideal candidate would have a strong interest in working with clients with disabilities at a minimum, as well as a demonstrated commitment to social justice and civil rights.
Requirements
The successful candidate will possess strong research and legal writing skills, and will have a sincere desire to protect, enforce, and advance the human and legal rights of persons with disabilities. As Utah’s designated Protection & Advocacy Agency (P&A), the DLC operates pursuant to unique federal statutory authority and engages in a wide range of practice areas, including employment, housing, and public accommodation discrimination; systemic advocacy in prisons, jails and other institutional settings; special education advocacy within public schools; systemic advocacy related to community integration for persons with disabilities; and legislative/ public policy advocacy aimed at strengthening laws that protect people with disabilities.
Experience working with individuals with disabilities is preferred; however, the ideal candidate would have a strong interest in working with clients with disabilities at a minimum, as well as a demonstrated commitment to social justice and civil rights.
Job responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Preparing legal documents, such as demand letters, complaints, motions, settlement documents and legal research memoranda.
• Scheduling client meetings and handling client communications.
• Attending legal advice clinics and note-taking.
• Researching novel issues of law.
The ideal candidate is someone that is:
• familiar with the Rules of Civil Procedure;
• detail oriented;
• receptive to feedback;
• public interest oriented/mission-driven;
• an independent worker;
• excellent grammar skills; and
• excellent verbal and written communication skills.
The position(s) are 10-12 hours during the school year. $18.00 per hour. No benefits. Flexible
schedule with remote work. People with disabilities and minorities are encouraged to apply. Please
send a résumé, cover letter, and writing sample to Lakshmi Vanderwerf.
Program Contact
Lakshmi Vanderwerf, Staff Attorney
lvanderwerf@disabilitylawcenter.org
Our Priorities
The DLC values collaboration, teamwork, and open communication. You’ll have the opportunity to work with like-minded individuals who share your passion for social justice and advocacy. Additionally, the DLC is committed to providing ongoing training and professional development opportunities to its employees. You’ll have access to a variety of resources and opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills.