Staff Attorney - Civil Rights, Edley Center on Law & Democracy (5258C), Berkeley Law - #88850 About Berkeley At the University of California, Berkeley , we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom, and belonging makes it a special place for students, faculty, and staff, who are among the most talented and accomplished anywhere, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and MacArthur Fellows. Since our founding in 1868, we have been an engine for innovation - driving intellectual, economic, and social progress that benefits California, the U.S., and beyond. Together, we change the world. At Berkeley, the best careers are built on a foundation of continuous learning and growth . We actively support professional development by providing all full-time staff employees with at least 80 hours of paid time per year and provide space for supportive colleague communities via numerous employee resource groups. We invite applicants who are inspired by our Principles of Community and who are eager to be part of our exciting Strategic Plan , which charts Berkeley's next era of excellence. Learn more about some of our accomplishments at Points of Pride . Departmental Overview The Edley Center's mission is to defend and strengthen democratic institutions in the United States through actionable research and public leadership. Position Summary The Civil Rights Staff Attorney for the Edley Center on Law & Democracy supports substantive legal work on behalf of the Center. This position provides dedicated legal expertise in civil litigation and policy to support the Center's wide range of legal research and advocacy. The Staff Attorney works on state and local policy development in California and other states, researches and drafts amicus briefs, engages in impact litigation, delivers on MOUs with government agencies, and provides legal guidance to community partners and coalitions. The ideal candidate will have experience developing civil rights policy informed by legal research and analysis, as well as experience in civil litigation. Application Review Date The First Review Date for this job is: October 6, 2026. For full consideration, please apply on or before the first review date. Responsibilities Supports Center cases and projects at the direction of the Executive Director. Conducts legal research and writing on cases and projects that fall within the scope and focus of the Edley Center, routinely focused on civil rights and state authorities. Drafts and files amicus briefs, motions and other materials on a wide range of topics. Mentors and works with student intern researchers to provide feedback and manage projects. Consults with coalition partners to meet litigation filing deadlines and policy deadlines. Meets and consults with potential clients to file amicus briefs, offer advice memos, or training materials. Liaises with Center partners and/or other stakeholders as necessary in order to gather information necessary to move litigation or policy projects forward. Assists with case investigation and development: Reviews and analyzes pending and enacted legislation. Assists in determining scope, timing and direction of the investigations. Reviews case records and filings, and analyzes options. Makes court appearances as needed. Performs additional duties as assigned. Required Qualifications Advanced knowledge in civil rights law and practice. Expertise in legal research, analysis, and advocacy strategy development. Strong communication and interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with all levels of staff and influence, both verbally and in writing. Ability to exercise sound judgement, use discretion and maintain all confidentiality. Advanced project management and organizational skills. Experience practicing civil law (litigation and or legislation/policy). Ability to multi-task with demanding timeframes. Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop creative and strategic solutions. Proven abilities in collaboration, facilitation, and strategic and creative thinking. Thorough understanding of complex legal issues. In-depth research skills to draft accurate, complete and persuasive legal documents, such as pleadings, legal responses, affidavits, position statements and briefs. Demonstrated commitment to the highest ethical standards. Strong attention to detail. Computer and technical skills, including proficiency in using standard productivity, communication, and video conferencing platforms (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, Zoom); ability to learn and effectively use new software systems and digital tools as required to meet evolving program needs. Demonstrated ability to collaborate and work effectively with individuals and groups from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that promotes collaboration and mutual respect among all members of the UC Berkeley community and its stakeholders. Must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage with and understand individuals from varied academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender, and ethnic backgrounds.

Education / Training

Advanced degree in a related area, such as a Juris Doctor.

Licenses / Certifications

A member in good standing of the CA Bar Association Salary & Benefits For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website. Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. The budgeted annual salary range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $110,000 - $136,710. This is an exempt, monthly-paid position. This is a full-time (40 hours/week) Career position eligible for UC benefits.