Application Guide

How to Apply for Directing Attorney (Temporary)

at National Center for Youth Law (NCYL)

🏢 About National Center for Youth Law (NCYL)

The National Center for Youth Law (NCYL) is a national nonprofit dedicated to fighting for the rights of children and youth, particularly those marginalized by society. With over 50 years of experience, NCYL partners with young people, families, and communities to dismantle racism, discrimination, and inequity across all systems affecting youth, making it a uniquely holistic and intersectional organization.

About This Role

As the Directing Attorney, you will independently lead the development and execution of impact litigation cases aimed at reforming systems that affect children and youth. This role is pivotal in shaping NCYL's legal strategy and driving systemic change, making it a high-impact opportunity for a seasoned litigator passionate about social justice.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve leading case strategy meetings with your legal team, reviewing pleadings and court filings, and engaging with co-counsel or community partners. You might also dedicate time to mentoring junior attorneys, managing case budgets, and sometimes traveling for court appearances or client meetings, balancing remote work with in-person advocacy when needed.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who National Center for Youth Law (NCYL) Is Looking For

  • A seasoned litigator with at least 10 years of experience in complex federal and state court litigation, ideally in civil rights or public interest law.
  • Demonstrated leadership in managing a team of attorneys and support staff, with experience in strategic planning and case management.
  • Deep understanding of issues affecting children and youth, including education, juvenile justice, child welfare, and healthcare access.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including community partners, pro bono counsel, and co-counsel from other organizations.

📝 Tips for Applying to National Center for Youth Law (NCYL)

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific impact litigation cases you have led, including outcomes and systemic changes achieved.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your personal mission to NCYL's focus on intersectional and holistic advocacy for marginalized youth.

3

Showcase your experience in mentoring and managing attorneys, as the role requires independent leadership of a litigation team.

4

Research NCYL's current cases and mention one or two that resonate with you, explaining how your skills could contribute.

5

Since the role is remote, emphasize your ability to work independently and manage virtual collaboration effectively.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your commitment to dismantling systemic inequities and your experience in impact litigation that has led to meaningful reform.', 'Leadership experience, including managing legal teams and driving strategic direction in complex cases.', 'Specific examples of how you have collaborated with community partners or other organizations to amplify impact.', 'Your understanding of the unique challenges faced by marginalized youth and how your work has addressed them.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review NCYL's current litigation docket and recent case victories to understand their legal strategies and focus areas.
  • → Read NCYL's theory of change and annual reports to grasp their holistic approach and impact metrics.
  • → Follow NCYL's leadership team and lead attorneys on LinkedIn or Twitter to stay updated on their recent commentary and initiatives.
  • → Look into NCYL's involvement in high-profile cases or campaigns, such as those related to juvenile justice or education equity.
Visit National Center for Youth Law (NCYL)'s Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a complex impact litigation case you led from inception to resolution. What were the strategic decisions and outcomes?
2 How do you approach balancing multiple cases and priorities while ensuring high-quality legal work?
3 How have you fostered diversity, equity, and inclusion within your legal team and in your advocacy?
4 How do you collaborate with non-legal partners, such as community organizers or policy advocates, to achieve litigation goals?
5 Given NCYL's remote work environment, how do you ensure effective communication and team cohesion?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't reference NCYL's specific mission or current cases.
  • Underestimating the leadership aspect of the role by focusing only on your litigation experience without highlighting people management.
  • Failing to address remote work readiness, assuming the interviewer knows you can handle it without explicit examples.

📅 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 National Center for Youth Law (NCYL)!

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