Legal Associate, Cruelty Response

Position Objective:

To advance the legal efforts of PETA Indias Cruelty Response Team (CRT) including to pursue criminal action in response to crimes against animals through various means.

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

• 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

Qualifications:

• Bachelors 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--vis PETA Indias philosophy and the ability to advocate for the groups positions on issues in a professional manner
• Commitment to the objectives and mission of PETA India