Job Summary:

JFS and Rachel Coalition are seeking a motivated and ambitious law student to join our domestic violence legal department as a Summer Associate. This temporary position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in various facets of legal practice. Summer Associates will be actively involved in client preparation, evidence gathering, legal research, document analysis, brief writing, case support, and where feasible, court appearances. This role includes exposure to client interactions, court proceedings, fostering professional development and career insights. Through mentorship, training, and feedback sessions, Summer Associates will enhance their legal skills and explore family law and litigation within our dynamic team. This Summer Associate position is designed to provide a valuable and immersive experience for those passionate about pursuing a public interest legal career.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform client intakes, prepare clients and witnesses for trial.
• For rising 3L, litigate a domestic violence restraining order case, including all court appearances, direct examinations, cross-examinations, entry of evidence, and closing arguments, if can be accomplished within the timeframe of the position. 
• Conduct legal research on specific issues, statutes, and case law.
• Draft legal memoranda, briefs, and other legal documents.
• Work closely with attorneys on ongoing cases and projects.
• Provide support in document review, analysis, and case preparation.
• Assist in the drafting, reviewing, and analysis of motions, legal documents, and evidence. 
• Gain experience in drafting and negotiating settlement agreements.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Currently enrolled in an accredited law school and working towards a JD degree.
• Strong legal research and writing skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Eagerness to learn and contribute to a collaborative legal environment.
• Must be able to commute within New Jersey.
• Position is grant-funded, and the following requirements need to be fulfilled:
• Perform a public education project/task, such as participating in a webinar or workshop for the public or updating an informational brochure. 
• Join the NJ Bar Association 
• Attend a kick-off event (week of Memorial Day)
• Participate in any Lunch and Learn sessions arranged by NJSBF or another provider. 

Physical Requirements (if any):

The physical requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their essential duties and responsibilities. While performing this job, one typically spends time sitting, listening, speaking, typing, reading, and writing.