Position Summary

The Legal Fellow is a two-year attorney position designed to provide meaningful litigation, policy, and victim advocacy experience while supporting the legal initiatives of Formation Legal. Working under the supervision of the Legal Director, the Fellow will assist in direct representation, legal research, training development, and innovative legal projects that advance justice for survivors of human trafficking and exploitation.

This position is ideal for an attorney seeking to deepen expertise in victim-centered advocacy, nonprofit legal services, and systems change.

Primary Responsibilities

Direct Legal Services

• Coordinate legal matters with outside counsel and partner law firms to ensure continuity of representation and effective case management.
• Provide representation and support in victims’ rights matters as assigned.
• Conduct jail visits and client consultations as needed.
• Provide legal coverage for senior attorneys during periods of absence or increased caseload.

Protective Orders and Victim Advocacy

• Oversee the organization’s restraining order and order of protection process.
• Train and provide ongoing guidance to victim advocates and case managers responsible for assisting clients with protective order matters.
• Collaborate with supervising attorneys to ensure best practices and legal compliance.

Legal Innovation and Systems Change

• Serve as Co-Chair of the Legal Innovations Committee, coordinating strategic projects that improve access to justice and legal services for survivors.
• Work collaboratively with committee members and organizational leadership to implement innovative legal initiatives and prepare for future leadership transitions.

Research and Strategic Support

• Conduct legal research and draft memoranda, policy analyses, and briefing materials for organizational leadership.
• Assist with the development of legal strategies, program initiatives, and special projects as assigned.

Training and Professional Education

• Coordinate planning and execution of attorney trainings, continuing legal education opportunities, and legal education events.
• Work alongside senior leadership to identify emerging legal issues and educational needs within the organization and community.

Other Responsibilities

• Perform additional duties and special projects assigned by organizational leadership to support the mission and growth of the legal program.
• Depending on organizational funding and program needs, there is a possibility that this position may continue beyond the two-year fellowship term. Fellows who demonstrate strong performance and mission alignment are encouraged to discuss long-term opportunities with leadership as the fellowship period progresses.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law or eligible for admission in South Carolina.
• Approximately 2–5 years of legal experience preferred but not required.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
• Demonstrated commitment to serving vulnerable populations and advancing justice.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.

Compensation

• Salary Range: commensurate with experience.
• Full benefits package and professional development opportunities available.

Fellowship Term

This is a two-year fellowship appointment intended to provide intensive experience in survivor-centered legal advocacy, nonprofit law, and legal systems innovation while preparing the Fellow for future leadership in public interest practice.

Pay: $58,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• legal: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in North Charleston, SC 29405