Lawyer

About the Job

Lawyer for Human Rights (LHR) is a civil society organization established by like-minded lawyers in 2018 and re-registered in September 2019 before the FDRE Civil Societies Organizations Agency in accordance with Proclamation No. 1113/2019.

The organization aims to increase the role and contribution of lawyers in the promotion and protection of human rights in Ethiopia.

Its key objectives include supporting legal capacity building for lawyers, facilitating knowledge and experience sharing, litigating strategic human rights cases, raising awareness on international human rights instruments, and providing free or low-cost legal services for victims of human rights violations, particularly disadvantaged communities.

Currently, LHR is implementing the project “Advancing Human Rights through Pre-trial Legal Aid Services II” in consortium with Advocates Ethiopia and Mizan Young Lawyers Association, supported by the Civil Society Innovation Fund II (CSIF II).

The project focuses on improving access to legal aid services for detainees at police stations in the early stages of criminal proceedings in Addis Ababa.

Accordingly, LHR is seeking to hire one lawyer to provide legal aid services at selected police stations in Addis Ababa during the project period.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide free legal services in accordance with the LHR Free Legal Aid Service Guideline
• Render legal advice to clients regarding their cases and applicable laws
• Prepare legal pleadings and petitions based on client needs
• Prepare cases for court proceedings where necessary
• Document and report legal aid service activities to the Project Coordinator according to LHR guidelines
• Ensure legal aid services are delivered in line with professional ethical standards

Job Requirements

Professional Competencies

• LLB degree in Law with a minimum of 2 years’ experience as a judge, prosecutor, or practicing lawyer
• Strong knowledge of the Ethiopian legal system and criminal justice system
• Good understanding of Ethiopian criminal and procedural laws
• Knowledge of constitutional rights, especially access to justice and legal aid services
• Familiarity with national and international legal frameworks on the rights of persons arrested in police stations

Personal Qualities

• Ability to explain legal matters clearly in non-technical language
• Strong passion for justice, fairness, and human rights protection
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet deadlines
• Ability to work under pressure with limited supervision in challenging environments
• Proactive, goal-oriented, and results-driven mindset
• Flexible, creative, and adaptable to changing conditions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Fluency in English and Amharic (Afan Oromo and Sidama required for specific locations)
• Computer literacy and ability to use internet-based tools
• Strong documentation and reporting skills

Skills Required:

• Legal / Law