Legal Associate, Cruelty Response

Full time

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Responsibilities

Monitor the progress of trials in relation to First Information Reports (FIRs) or Preliminary Offense Reports (PORs) handled by CRT
File, monitor and pursue or defend cases/petitions/applications for rescue and rehabilitation of animals through courts, including through engagement of external legal counsel
Conduct legal research for ongoing and proposed litigation pertaining to FIRs and PORs
Advise on legal provisions and applicable charges to be invoked in cases involving crimes against animals
Recruit, assess and collaborate with external local counsels and liaise with public prosecutors to ensure effective progress in cases involving crimes against animals
Travel to various locations as required and often on short notice to manage court-related responsibilities
Maintain comprehensive and organised records of legal documents, including petitions, court orders, and bonds
Professionally represent PETA India in court, to external counsels, police, government officials, the public, media and all other stakeholders
Meet with law-enforcement and government officials in order to persuade them to act to the greatest extent of the law in cases of cruelty to animals
Draft and coordinate or review official letters, Right to Information Act requests, reports, news releases and other documents as needed to ensure sound legal arguments
Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor

Qualification & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in law (LLB) from a university recognised by the Bar Council of India (BCI)
Minimum three years of relevant experience with at least two years criminal law or litigation experience preferred
Trial court experience and sound knowledge of criminal laws
Good standing to practice law
Preferred experience in animal rights law or a related field
Thoroughly knowledge of animal rights issues and PETA India campaigns
Ability to collaborate and work seamlessly with other departments such as Policy, Legal and Investigations, as needed
Proficiency in using computers and legal research tools
Fluency in Hindi and English; knowledge of additional Indian languages is an asset
Exceptional organisational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask effectivel
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Strong commitment to supporting law enforcement efforts, advancing legal protections for animals, and actively contributing to the prevention of cruelty to animals
Compassionate, responsible, and self-driven character
Outgoing and personable manners with excellent communication skills
Adherence to a vegan lifestyle
Willingness and ability to travel independently for police and court-related responsibilities
Supportive position vis-à-vis PETA India’s philosophy and the ability to advocate for the group’s positions on issues in a professional manner
Commitment to the objectives and mission of PETA India