The Sinsheimer Children’s Rights Fellowship

Background

Partnership for Children’s Rights has a history of mentorship and training for lawyers who are interested in special education and disability law. Our newly-established Sinsheimer Children’s Rights Fellowship offers an outstanding opportunity for lawyers interested and committed to a career in public interest and promoting the rights of children to experience the rewards of hands-on training and supervision by seasoned and dedicated professionals.

Who is Eligible?

Recent NYU School of Law graduates or NYU graduates completing clerkships are eligible to work as a Sinsheimer Fellow at PFCR for one year, with an option for a second year upon mutual agreement. One fellow will be selected each year to serve as a PFCR attorney for New York City children from low income families with predominately special education needs and social security disability issues. PFCR is currently seeking candidates for a September 2010 start date.

Responsibilities of a Sinsheimer Fellow

The Sinsheimer Fellow will represent families in administrative hearings brought against the NYC Department of Education to secure appropriate educational placements and services for children with learning, emotional and physical disabilities. The fellow will also provide legal representation in child disability matters brought against the Social Security Administration’s Office of Hearings and Appeals and will participate in all aspects of client representation. Specific responsibilities will include:

• Conduct client interviews and case preparations, including legal research and record review;
• Develop legal arguments, gather evidence and prepare witnesses;
• Provide legal representation in Administrative Hearings and other litigation;
• Engage in post-hearing advocacy, including state and federal court motion and appellate practice;
• Work as part of an interdisciplinary team with social service professionals.

There will also be opportunities for community outreach and education.

Compensation

Compensation for this position will be equal to the starting salary at The Legal Aid Society of New York City, including comparable benefits.

Application Process

Applications will be accepted for a September 2010 start date beginning October 5, 2009, with a deadline of November 13, 2009. Please include a resume, writing sample, transcript, and up to two references, along with a cover letter providing a detailed description of your commitment to child advocacy and public interest law. Please forward all correspondence to:

The Sinsheimer Children’s Rights Fellowship
Partnership for Children’s Rights
271 Madison Avenue, 17^th Floor
New York, NY 10016

or:         Silverblatt@pfcr.org

Applicants will be notified of an interview schedule by December 7, 2009. Decisions will be announced early in 2010.

For more information, contact PFCR Executive Director Todd Silverblatt at(212) 683-7999 or by e-mail (Silverblatt@pfcr.org).