Application Guide

How to Apply for Attorney Position Midwest Voting Rights Program Based in Indiana

at Chicago Lawyers' Committee For Civil Rights Under Law, Inc.

🏢 About Chicago Lawyers' Committee For Civil Rights Under Law, Inc.

Chicago Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights is a nonprofit legal organization dedicated to advancing racial justice and civil rights through litigation, policy advocacy, and community partnerships. With a focus on voting rights in the Midwest, they have a proven track record of impactful federal court challenges and community-driven legal work, making them a leader in the fight against voter suppression.

About This Role

This role places you on the front lines of defending voting rights in Indiana, one of the most restrictive states for voters. As the lead in-state attorney, you will drive high-impact litigation and policy advocacy, shaping the legal landscape for years to come. You'll work closely with the Midwest Voting Rights Program Director and Legal Director to expand access to voting for marginalized communities.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve drafting a federal court complaint or motion, meeting with coalition partners to discuss community concerns, and strategizing with the Midwest Voting Rights Program Director on upcoming advocacy. You could also be preparing for a hearing, reviewing new voting legislation, or conducting outreach to voters through the Election Protection hotline.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Chicago Lawyers' Committee For Civil Rights Under Law, Inc. Is Looking For

  • An experienced attorney (5+ years) with a strong background in voting rights, civil rights, or constitutional law litigation.
  • Licensed to practice law in Indiana or willing to become licensed promptly; familiarity with Indiana's political and legal landscape is a plus.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead complex litigation, including federal court cases, and to develop strategic advocacy campaigns.
  • Passionate about racial justice and community-driven legal work, with excellent writing, oral advocacy, and collaboration skills.

📝 Tips for Applying to Chicago Lawyers' Committee For Civil Rights Under Law, Inc.

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific voting rights or civil rights litigation experience, including case outcomes and your role.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your experience to CLC's past Indiana voting rights cases (e.g., challenges to restrictive voting laws, expansion of access for incarcerated individuals).

3

Demonstrate familiarity with Indiana's voting landscape by referencing recent legislation or voter suppression issues in the state.

4

Highlight any experience with coalition building, community partnerships, or policy advocacy alongside litigation.

5

Include a writing sample that showcases your ability to craft persuasive legal arguments in a voting rights or civil rights context.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your commitment to racial justice and protecting voting rights in restrictive environments.', "Specific examples of litigation or advocacy work you've led that aligns with CLC's mission and Indiana focus.", 'Your understanding of the unique challenges facing Indiana voters and your ideas for advancing voting access.', "How you can contribute to CLC's collaborative, community-driven approach and build on their existing work in Indiana."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review CLC's recent Indiana voting rights cases and press releases on their website.
  • → Study Indiana's current voting laws (e.g., voter ID, mail-in voting restrictions, purges) and recent legislative changes.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the 866-OUR-VOTE hotline and CLC's Election Protection partnership in Indiana.
  • → Look into the backgrounds of key CLC staff, especially the Midwest Voting Rights Program Director and Legal Director.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Discuss your experience with federal voting rights litigation, including any cases under the Voting Rights Act or related constitutional challenges.
2 How would you approach building relationships with community partners and coalitions in Indiana?
3 Describe a time you had to adapt your legal strategy in response to new legislation or court rulings.
4 What is your vision for expanding voting access for system-impacted individuals in Indiana?
5 How do you handle high-pressure situations, such as election-related emergencies or tight filing deadlines?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application that doesn't reference CLC's specific Indiana work or voting rights focus.
  • Overemphasizing academic credentials without demonstrating practical litigation or advocacy experience.
  • Failing to show knowledge of Indiana's unique voting rights challenges or the current political climate.
  • Not addressing how you will handle the demands of being the lead in-state attorney, including travel and remote work coordination.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Chicago Lawyers' Committee For Civil Rights Under Law, Inc.!

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