Legal Officer

FLSA Classification: Exempt

Location: Washington, DC

Reports To: Legal Director

About the Position: The Syria Justice and Accountability Centre (SJAC) has initiated a project to promote awareness of victims’ rights and increase participation of Syrians in European national justice mechanisms through universal jurisdiction. It seeks a Legal Officer to support the Legal Director by providing legal analysis and support for the project including outreach activities and work with legal services organizations to support Syrian victims/survivors.

General Duties:

• Research and write legal memoranda concerning issues surrounding national and international prosecutions of atrocity crimes in Syria, remaining attuned to litigation opportunities for the organization
• Draft legal submissions in relevant international proceedings in support of Syrian justice, accountability, and human rights
• Increase awareness of SJAC’s mission and goals by representing SJAC at events with non-governmental, intergovernmental, and national government stakeholders
• Serve as the primary point of contact between SJAC and legal service organizations representing Syrian victims and witnesses in national proceedings
• Support SJAC’s trial monitoring of trials impacting Syrian justice by drafting reports, reviewing publications, and ensuring timely production of high-quality materials
• Support production of SJAC’s podcast by providing background research and technical support to the podcast production team
• Engage in SJAC’s activities in documentation, data analysis, and transitional justice discourse, e.g. drafting short-form analysis
• Perform other tasks as needed

Skills and Experience

• Advanced university degree in law with coursework in international law, human rights law, international criminal law, and/or evidence preferred
• At least 3 years of relevant experience in international criminal law, human rights, and/or humanitarian law in an international organization, government, or non-profit
• A passion for human rights advocacy and transitional justice
• Experience working on the Middle East, specifically the Syrian conflict. Familiarity or experience with the European justice space is a plus
• Excellent organizational skills, including attention to detail, ability to prioritize and multi-task, and ability to work under and adhere to tight deadlines
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team; must be a team player and demonstrate a sense of responsibility and sensitivity in dealing with diverse audiences
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Fluency in Arabic preferred, but not required

Work Eligibility Requirements

Candidates should have legal work authorization and be eligible to work in the United States. SJAC is unable to provide any Visa sponsorship.

To apply

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to hiring@syriaaccountability.org. Please include “Legal Officer – [Your Name]” in the subject line. Deadline is August 6, 2021. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Position is contingent upon funding.

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

AA/EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled.

Job Email id: hiring(at)syriaaccountability.org