Staff Attorney
The Ohio Justice and Policy Center (OJPC) is seeking a Staff Attorney to join their team in Columbus, Ohio. OJPC is a statewide nonprofit law office dedicated to reducing incarceration, improving conditions inside prisons, and expanding freedom and opportunity for individuals with criminal records. The Staff Attorney will primarily focus on clemency advocacy through Ohio’s Expedited Pardon Project (EPP), providing direct legal services to individuals with criminal records.
In this role, the Staff Attorney will lead clemency-focused representation, including evaluating clients, preparing pardon applications, and preparing clients for Parole Board review. Additional responsibilities include providing direct legal services such as record sealing, expungement, Certificates of Qualification for Employment (CQEs), and Certificates of Qualification for Housing (CQHs). The attorney will also conduct client intake, case evaluation, and ongoing client support throughout representation, participate in Second Chance Legal Clinics, community outreach, and public education related to record relief and clemency, and collaborate with OJPC legal staff on litigation and advocacy supporting broader organizational priorities. Administrative duties include assisting with program data tracking and reporting.
Candidates should possess a Juris Doctor or advanced law degree and be admitted to the Ohio Bar or eligible for admission consistent with Ohio Supreme Court rules. Strong research, writing, analytical, and advocacy skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds. A demonstrated commitment to social justice and criminal legal system reform is required, as well as experience in record sealing, expungement, clemency, or parole advocacy. Experience working within or alongside the criminal legal system and providing client-centered, trauma-informed legal representation is preferred. Public speaking or community education experience is also beneficial.
The compensation for this position includes a salary range of $70,000 to $73,000 annually, commensurate with experience. OJPC offers a competitive benefits package, including 27 paid time off (PTO) days, 13 paid holidays, and an annual winter break between Christmas and New Year’s.
OJPC is committed to creating fair, intelligent, and redemptive criminal justice systems through zealous, client-centered advocacy, innovative policy reform, and cross-sector community education. Joining OJPC provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on individuals and communities affected by the criminal legal system.