Pro Se Staff Attorney

Summary

The Pro Se Staff Attorney provides legal advice and assistance to the Court in connection with non-habeas corpus civil cases involving pro se litigants, the majority of which allege civil rights violations. The Pro Se Staff Attorney monitors the filings in such cases and drafts appropriate opinions and orders. This is a two-year position and has a term end date of Sept. 30, 2028. Subject to budgetary approval and satisfactory performance, this position may be extended beyond Sept. 30, 2028.

Duties

Performs substantive screening of all non-habeas corpus civil cases filed by unrepresented inmates and detainees and initial screening of non-prisoner pro se litigation. Performs research and appropriate recommendations, memoranda, and orders for the presiding Judge's signature throughout the pendency of the case, as well as other case work as needed to assist the workload of the Court, including assisting with trials and court hearings. Monitors all civil cases (not including section 2254 and 2255 habeas corpus motions) involving pro se litigants to make sure the cases are properly progressing. Advises the Court when action needs to be taken and prepares orders and opinions responsive to the needs of the case. Compiles statistics and prepares periodic reports, as required, that reflect the status and flow of cases. Identifies problem areas, makes recommendations, and offers solutions, as required by the Court, Administrative Office, and other officials. Draft proposed opinions and orders for review by District Judges, including motions to dismiss, motions for summary judgment, and final opinions Keeps abreast of changes in the law to aid the Court in adjusting to new legislation in the pro se area. Maintains liaison between the Court and litigants. Corresponds with other officials and counsel as necessary. Evaluates present procedures to determine new innovations for increasing the effectiveness in handling complaints, petitions, and pleadings. Reviews the docket of pending prisoner and inmate litigation to assure the proper progress of such cases and advises the Court of those cases where action by the Court is appropriate. Provides information, guidance, and advice to judges and other personnel working in the pro se area. Advises appropriate personnel on the status of particular cases. Provides assistance to Clerk of Court staff when necessary. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Legal work experience is progressively responsible experience in the practice of law, in legal research, legal administration, or equivalent experience received after graduation from law school. The applicant must have a minimum of one year of post-graduate legal work experience.

Requirements

The Pro Se Staff Attorney is a sensitive position. The selected candidate will be subject to an FBI fingerprint check as a condition of employment, and may be subject to periodic updates.

Education

To qualify for the position of Pro Se Staff Attorney, an individual must be a law school graduate from a law school of recognized standing, and have demonstrated one or more of the following accomplishments or proficiencies: Standing within the upper third of the law school class from a law school on the approved list of either the American Bar Association or the Association of American Law Schools; Experience on the editorial board of a law review of such a school; Graduation from such a school with an LLM degree; or Demonstrated proficiency in legal studies which in the opinion of the judge is the equivalent of one of the above.

Source: USAJOBS (usajobs.gov). View the full announcement and apply on USAJOBS.