JOBS: Memphis Children's Defense Clinic

Via Prof. Danny Schaffzin:

Visiting Assistant Professor of Law
Children’s Defense Clinic
University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law

 

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is seeking a Visiting Assistant Professor of Law to create, direct and teach a new Children’s Defense Clinic that will launch in the Fall of 2016 and play a critical role in institutionalizing reform in Shelby County’s juvenile defense system. Funding is in place to allow the Visiting Assistant Professor to begin as soon as possible during the Spring 2016 semester and teach through the 2016-17 academic year.

Under the direction of the Visiting Assistant Professor, the Children’s Defense Clinic will provide legal representation to youth who are charged in delinquency proceedings in Shelby County Juvenile Court and in related matters. In addition to representing children in delinquency cases, students may provide advocacy in non-traditional areas, such as: (1) pre-petition matters, (2) postadjudication, (3) school disciplinary hearings, (4) appeals, and (5) systemic reform through policy advocacy or litigation. Pursuant to applicable student practice rules, it is anticipated that Clinic students will engage in all types and aspects of casework, including interviewing clients and witnesses; fact investigations; drafting of motions, briefs, memoranda, and pleadings; development of pre- and post-trial strategies in trial and appellate courts, and in administrative settings; and representation of clients in trial, hearings, oral argument, and in testimony before legislative bodies. It is expected that the Clinic will emphasize team practice and collaboration, building and seizing on interdisciplinary partnerships to provide broadly focused, multi-systemic advocacy for clinic clients.

Candidates should be prepared to present their comprehensive vision for creating, teaching, administering, growing, and cultivating enduring support for the Children’s Defense Clinic. For duties related to the Children’s Defense Clinic, the Visiting Assistant Professor will report directly to the Director of Experiential Learning, and will work closely with the Dean, the Director of Experiential Learning, and Faculty on the development of the Children’s Defense Clinic.

Candidates must possess a J.D. or equivalent law degree, and, among other qualifications, should have a minimum of three (3) years of legal practice experience; a demonstrated interest in children’s criminal defense, substantial experience or interest in representing clients in juvenile justice settings; a strong desire to supervise and work with students; and a commitment to building community relationships and programs. If not admitted to practice in Tennessee, candidates can obtain permission to practice in Tennessee without having to sit for the Tennessee bar examination pursuant to Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 7, Section 10.02 (allowing special admission to practice for attorneys in employed in law school clinical programs).

Applicants should apply through the University of Memphis Work Forum (https://workforum.memphis.edu/postings/11744)and submit a letter of interest, resume, and list of three references to Professor Amy Campbell, Chair, Children’s Defense Clinic Faculty Recruitment Committee, at [email protected]. Write “Children’s Defense Clinic Application” in the subject line of the email. Preference will be given to applications received by January 15, 2016, although applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

The University of Memphis School of Law recently celebrated its 50th anniversary in its new building, the newly restored U.S. Customs House in downtown Memphis. A $48 million project, the structure offers a magnificent setting for learning and  teaching and has been recognized as one of the finest law school facilities in the nation and the world. Memphis is a beautiful  and diverse city with affordable real estate and an excellent quality of life. The city is known for its friendly atmosphere, revitalized downtown, and attractions such as Graceland, Beale Street, Opera Memphis, Memphis Symphony Orchestra, Memphis Zoo, NBA Grizzlies, Memphis Tigers basketball team, National Civil Rights Museum, and nationally recognized theatre companies.

While the School of Law does not treat race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, or sexual orientation as dispositive in hiring decisions, the School has a strong institutional commitment to hiring persons who will add to its diversity. The University of Memphis is an EEO/AA employer.