TexasAppleseed.net

Staff Attorney/Policy Analyst Position 

We are currently seeking a staff attorney or policy analyst.  This position works under the direction of the Deputy Director and the Executive Director to implement Texas Appleseed’s programs focused on Dismantling the School to Prison Pipeline.

The candidate must have a commitment to Appleseed’s mission and experience in legal or policy work.  Qualifications include licensed to practice law or Masters in Public Policy, legislative or policy development experience, outstanding written and verbal communication skills, organizational and time management skills, initiative, and the ability to meet deadlines.  Experience in public speaking, media relations, and community outreach preferred.  This position is located in Austin, but some travel is required.

Minimum requirements:  license to practice law or Masters in Public Policy and proven ability in written and oral communications.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct legal and programmatic research and advocacy
• Draft policy recommendations, reports, presentations, correspondence and other documents
• Assist in developing and implementing legislative and policy strategies
• Assist in litigation and administrative complaints
• Conduct presentations for judges, agency officials, stakeholders, policy makers and/or the public
• Work with local community partners across the state
• Testify at hearings, legislative meetings or other events
• Represent Appleseed at meetings, forums and other events
• Assist in implementing media outreach
• Coordinate with pro bono partners, advocates, community partners and other stakeholders
• Prepare and present programmatic goals, plan of implementation and policy recommendations to appropriate stakeholders and the public.

Send cover letter, resume, references, a writing sample and salary requirements to Brennan Griffin,  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Internship Opportunities

Texas Appleseed is pleased to offer a small number of unpaid internships in a variety of project areas each year for students of law and public policy. To learn more about an internship with Texas Appleseed, please contact Brennan Griffin, Development Director.

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 512.473.2800 x 102

Fellowship Opportunities

Texas Appleseed does not have its own funding for fellowships, but will support applications from qualified respondents to fellowship programs like those offered by Skadden, Equal Justice Works and Soros Justice Fellowships. We accept applicants in one of four program areas:

Payday Lending:  We are now working with a broad coalition of organizations and legislators to restore meaningful regulation of high-dollar payday and auto title lending in Texas. We need assistance with research, developing policy recommendations, and encouraging market reform.  Lead Pro Bono Partner: Mayer Brown LLP

Foster Care:  At the request of the Texas Supreme Court Commission on Children, Youth and Families, we are exploring the challenges facing children in long-term foster care and recommending ways that the courts and legal system can improve the lives of these children.  We need research and other legal assistance.  Lead Pro Bono Partner: Fulbright Jaworski L.L.P.

Disaster Relief:  In the wake of Hurricanes Ike and Dolly, Texas Appleseed has worked hard to ensure that the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Disaster Recovery program addresses the needs low- and moderate-income households still struggling to rebuild.  We need assistance with research and monitoring.  Lead Pro Bono Partner: Greenberg Traurig, LLP, with special thanks to Mayer Brown LLP.

Texas' School-to-Prison Pipeline:  Our research shows a link between school discipline, school drop-out, and future involvement in the juvenile justice system. We are now working to improve school discipline practices and developing policy recommendations around arrest, ticketing and use of force in Texas public schools.  We need assistance with research and outreach. Lead Pro Bono Partner: Vinson & Elkins, LLP

To apply for a fellowship in one of our project areas, please contact Brennan Griffin, Development Director.

Email:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  or 512.473.2800 x 102