Job Description
Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect, and without judgment, striving to create equitable access to health care. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable education and information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.
Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports the independently incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates operating health centers across the U.S. Planned Parenthood Action Fund is an independent, nonpartisan, not-for-profit membership organization formed as the advocacy and political arm of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. The Action Fund engages in educational, advocacy, and electoral activity, including grassroots organizing, legislative advocacy, and voter education.
The Public Policy Litigation amp; Law Department (PPLamp;L) represents PPFA and Planned Parenthood affiliates in matters that affect the Planned Parenthood mission. PPLamp;L provides legal advice toand, when appropriate, conducts litigation in state and federal courts across the country on behalf of PPFA and Planned Parenthood affiliates in order to protect and expand access to sexual and reproductive health care.PPLamp;L seeks applicants for two paralegal positions in Washington, D.C. PPFA operates on a hybrid schedule, requiring at least two days per week in the office. This position reports to a Managing Senior Staff Attorney in PPLamp;L.
Applicants should submit a cover letter (including applicant’s pronouns, if comfortable disclosing), résumé (clearly indicating the applicant’s month/year of anticipated or completed college graduation), and a writing sample (any original text written solely by the applicant that the applicant feels best represents their writing abilities). Review of applicants will not begin until January 29, 2024; we strongly encourage candidates to apply before that date to ensure review of their application.
This position is a two-year commitment with an expected end in summer 2026, though a one-year extension may be possible. PPLamp;L is seeking paralegals who can begin work in June/July 2024. Successful applicants have been individuals interested in gaining entry-level work experience before applying to law/graduate school or other public policy positions.
Purpose:
The four-person paralegal team provides support for the team of approximately 20 attorneys in PPLamp;L who conduct reproductive rights litigation and policy work.
Engagement:
The paralegals will work most closely with the members of PPLamp;L, as well as with colleagues from other departments on occasion.
Delivery:
Cite-checking and copy-editing briefs and other legal documents.Assisting in the production and service of legal filings.Completing legal and factual research using Westlaw, academic databases, and the internet.Using G Suite programs to write, edit, and analyze non-legal documents related to reproductive rights.Responding to requests for information.Performing various administrative tasks, including printing; compiling binders; completing out-of-office errands; assisting with department finance tasks; maintaining case dockets and departmental resources; tracking litigation deadlines; attending and taking notes at team meetings; assisting with hiring and onboarding new staff; and making travel and meeting arrangements.Contributing to the department’s ongoing work to center the communities most affected by laws restricting access to sexual and reproductive health and rights
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):A Bachelor’s degree;Superior research, writing, and editing skills (knowledge of Westlaw and G Suite not required; we will train as needed);Demonstrated interest in social justice (including, but not limited to, internships, academic work, extracurricular activities, volunteer experience, etc.);Ability to work as part of a team as well as independently;Ability to learn complex tasks and concepts quickly;Excellent communication skills, including ability to accurately and succinctly impart knowledge and skills to others;Attention to detail; initiative; resourcefulness; ability to juggle multiple tasks and prioritize; andCommitment to antiracism and to diversity, equity, and inclusion across
Job Specification