OPPORTUNITY: ABA-UNDP International Legal Resource Center (ILRC) - Venezuela

The ABA-UNDP International Legal Resource Center (ILRC) has received a request from the ABA Center for Human Rights Justice Defenders (JD) Program for a pro bono attorney to observe hearings in the trial in Venezuela. The JD Program provides pro bono legal assistance to human rights defenders who are the subject of harassment. Specifically, the program: a) advises and supports embattled human rights advocates by providing international and comparative legal research, and consulting on litigation strategies and b) observes and raises public awareness of trials and provides analysis of sensitive issues.

The JD Program, in collaboration with other international legal organizations, is monitoring the trial of a South American attorney who is facing spurious criminal charges in retaliation for her commitment to human rights. Since her arrest, national and international human rights groups have raised various concerns over the legality of her detention.

A pro bono attorney is needed to travel to Venezuela to observe hearings in the trial.

· Deliverable

Trial monitors will be expected to observe the full day of proceedings. Each hearing usually lasts one business day. Trial monitors will be expected to submit a preliminary report upon completion of the mission, no more than 3 business days after the last day of observation.

· Logistics

The anticipated schedule for observations will be once every 2 weeks for the next two to three months. Each trip will average three (3) days. Volunteers will be asked to indicate their availability several weeks in advance and will be informed of the exact hearing schedule the week before the hearing. The next anticipated hearing will take place in mid-June.

· Costs

This is a pro bono assignment based in Venezuela to commence once an expert is selected. The JD Program will cover the cost of travel.

S/he must have a:) an advanced university degree in Law or other fields relevant to the assignment; b) at least 5 or more years of legal experience post graduation; c) extensive knowledge of criminal law matters in order to report back on fair trial issues [preferably as a judge, prosecutor or criminal defense attorney]; c) previous experience working in Latin America and knowledge of the context of the Venezuela’s human rights and political landscape; d) strong interpersonal skills in a multi-cultural environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity; e) excellent communication, analytical, and writing skills; e) fluency in Spanish (required).

**Candidates with less experience are welcome to submit their CV for future reference. Spanish proficiency is required.

The application deadline is Monday, June 10, 2013 at 5pm (EDT). Application materials must include a CV and a detailed cover letter. Please note that this is NOT a paid opportunity.

We would be most appreciative if you would review and determine whether you, anyone you know or any organization with which you are affiliated may have any knowledge of experts who might be good candidates. If you or members of your organization are interested in working with the ABA Justice Defenders Progam, please email updated CV and cover letter* (attached as word or PDF documents) by Monday, June 10, 2013 at 5pm (EDT). [Not attached. SPD] As always, we appreciate your assistance and please do not hesitate to contact us for more information or if you have any questions.

Completed applications must be sent to Jacqueline.Gichinga@americanbar.org.