Application Guide

How to Apply for Managing Attorney

at National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)

🏢 About National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)

NDRN is the nation's largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of individuals with disabilities, representing the federally mandated Protection and Advocacy (P&A) and Client Assistance Program (CAP) agencies across all U.S. states and territories. Working here means joining a powerful nationwide network that drives systemic change through litigation, advocacy, and policy work, ensuring people with disabilities have equal opportunity and access to justice.

About This Role

As Managing Attorney of the Employment, Education, and Accessibility Unit, you will lead a team of attorneys and advocates to shape national strategies enforcing the ADA, IDEA, and Rehabilitation Act. This role involves supervising case development, mentoring staff, and coordinating with P&A agencies to advance disability rights through high-impact litigation and advocacy, making a tangible difference in the lives of millions.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a team check-in to review active cases and allocate resources, followed by a call with a P&A agency on a new ADA complaint. You might then draft a strategy memo for an upcoming IDEA case, mentor a junior attorney on a brief, and end the day by participating in a coalition call on employment policy.

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🎯 Who National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) Is Looking For

  • A seasoned attorney with at least 8 years of legal experience, including significant expertise in disability rights law (ADA, IDEA, Rehabilitation Act) and a track record of leading complex litigation.
  • A strong people manager who can supervise, mentor, and inspire a team of attorneys and advocates, fostering collaboration and professional growth.
  • A strategic thinker with experience in national advocacy, policy development, and coalition-building, able to align litigation efforts with broader systemic change goals.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to represent NDRN in public forums, legal filings, and media interactions.

📝 Tips for Applying to National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)

1

Tailor your resume to highlight leadership in disability rights litigation, specifically cases under ADA, IDEA, or Section 504, and include supervisory roles with measurable outcomes.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your personal passion for disability justice to NDRN's mission and provide examples of how you've advanced systemic change.

3

Research NDRN's recent amicus briefs, policy reports, or high-profile cases and reference them in your application to demonstrate your knowledge of their current work.

4

Emphasize experience working with or within the P&A network, as understanding the state-federal dynamic is crucial for this role.

5

Prepare a writing sample that showcases your ability to craft persuasive legal arguments in disability rights context, preferably a brief or memorandum related to employment, education, or accessibility.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your commitment to disability rights as civil rights and alignment with NDRN's mission of systemic change.", 'Specific examples of leading litigation or advocacy that advanced employment, education, or accessibility for people with disabilities.', 'Your experience managing and mentoring legal teams, with emphasis on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion.', 'Understanding of the P&A network and how you will collaborate with member agencies to amplify impact.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review NDRN's latest annual report and strategic plan to understand their priorities and recent victories.
  • → Read NDRN's amicus briefs in recent Supreme Court cases involving disability rights (e.g., Perez v. Sturgis Public Schools).
  • → Familiarize yourself with the structure of the P&A network and the role of CAP agencies in each state.
  • → Explore NDRN's policy positions on current issues like employment discrimination, accessible technology, and education equity.
Visit National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)'s Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a complex disability rights case you led from inception to resolution; what was your strategy and outcome?
2 How do you balance supervising a team while handling your own caseload? Provide an example of a conflict you resolved.
3 How would you prioritize competing demands from P&A agencies, national advocacy goals, and limited resources?
4 What is your approach to mentoring junior attorneys and fostering professional development in a remote setting?
5 How do you stay current on changes in disability law, and how would you incorporate new legal developments into NDRN's strategy?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid a generic application that doesn't specifically address disability rights law or NDRN's unique role in the P&A network.
  • Don't overlook the management aspect; failing to demonstrate supervisory experience or interest in mentoring can be a deal-breaker.
  • Steer clear of a narrow focus on litigation only; NDRN values advocacy, policy, and coalition-building as part of systemic change.

📅 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 Disability Rights Network (NDRN)!

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