About A Better Childhood

A Better Childhood is a national nonprofit organization that uses systemic class action litigation to improve public child welfare systems and protect the rights of vulnerable children across the United States.

The Role

A Better Childhood is seeking an experienced Staff Attorney to support complex federal litigation aimed at reforming child welfare systems. Based in New York City, the successful candidate will work on high-impact cases involving constitutional and federal statutory rights, helping to investigate, develop, and litigate cases that drive lasting systemic change.

Key Responsibilities

• Investigate potential cases and support the development of litigation strategies.
• Draft complaints, motions, briefs, and other legal filings.
• Conduct legal research and develop legal theories.
• Manage and participate in all stages of the discovery process.
• Work with experts and stakeholders to gather evidence and analyze child welfare systems.
• Take and defend depositions and assist with discovery-related proceedings.
• Support trial preparation, settlement negotiations, and enforcement activities.
• Collaborate with internal staff, partner law firms, and community stakeholders.

Requirements

• Admission to a state bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
• Minimum of four years of litigation experience, preferably in federal court.
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Excellent organizational and case management abilities.
• Demonstrated commitment to public interest or social justice work.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Interest in advancing child welfare and children’s rights.

What They Offer

• Opportunity to work on nationally significant public interest litigation.
• Direct collaboration with leading child welfare advocates and legal experts.
• Hybrid work arrangement with office attendance in New York City Tuesday through Thursday.
• Meaningful work that contributes to systemic reform and improved outcomes for children.
• Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and equal opportunity.

How to Apply

Submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to jobs@abetterchildhood.org. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged.