The Southern Center for Human Rights invites applications for an investiga­tor/paralegal to work on death penalty cases.

The Center, a non-profit, public interest legal project, has defended the human and civil rights of the condemned and imprisoned throughout the South since 1976. Attorneys with the Center represent poor, minority, and disadvan­taged persons facing the death penalty at trials, on appeal, and in post-conviction proceed­ings. In addition, Center attorneys represent those confined to prisons and jails in federal class action litigation challenging unconstitutional conditions and practices. The Center is also involved in public education and advocacy. The Center is made up of twelve attorneys, an associate director, eight investiga­tor/parale­gals, two support staff, and a varying number of student interns and volunteers. For more information about the Center, see our website at www.schr.org.

Responsibilities of the investigator include investigating the facts and circumstances of crimes and the life and backgrounds of clients facing the death penalty. Duties include: locating and interviewing witnesses; assisting in the preparation of a client's social and life history, including instances of mental illness, mental retardation, poverty, substance abuse, and child­hood abuse and neglect; obtaining records and other documentary evidence; interviewing clients; orga­nizing information for use by attorneys, mental health profes­sionals, and other experts; coordinat­ing the appearances of witnesses at hearings and trials; and any other work neces­sary to defend the Center's clients.

The Center is seeking applicants who are highly motivated, well organized, independent, and able to take initiative. Applicants should be willing to travel extensively in Georgia, Alabama, and elsewhere; capable of working while traveling and with little direct supervision; able to write clearly and concisely; trustwor­thy with confidential information; willing to work long hours, including weekends, when needed; willing and capable of working alone on assignments; and commit­ted to the Center's work. A background in social work, pre-law studies, journalism, or mental health may be helpful, but is not required. The Center seeks a commitment of at least three years. Salary: $30,000.

Please send a resume, writing sample, and the names and telephone numbers of three references to: Shelby Smith, Associate Director, at 83 Poplar Street, Atlanta, GA 30303-2122, as soon as possible. While the ideal candidate will be able to start early to mid April 2006, the Center will review applications until the position is filled.

The Southern Center for Human Rights is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. The Center does not discrim­inate on the basis of race, color, gender, religious creed, national original, ancestry, disability, or sexual orientation. The Center encourages applications from minorities, women and other groups that are underrepresented in the legal profession.