Contract Staff Attorney - Eviction Right to Counsel Project - Houston, TX

Description

Lone Star Legal Aid (LSLA) seeks one Contract Staff Attorney - Eviction Right to Counsel Project (JP# HOU 007-2024) for its Houston Branch Office.

LSLA is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit law firm and its mission is to protect and advance the civil rights of low-income Texans by providing advocacy, legal representation, and community education that ensure equal access to justice.

These are one-year contract Staff Attorney positions created to assist vulnerable populations facing eviction. This project will strengthen the community response for low income and income-unstable tenants.

Summary of Responsibilities

Staff Attorney must be able to gather evidence, conduct civil lawsuits, draft legal documents, and advise clients about their legal rights. Staff Attorney must also be able to interview clients and witnesses, as well as handle other details in preparation for client legal representation. LSLA Staff Attorney represents clients in court and before quasi-judicial or administrative agencies of government. The applicant interprets laws, rulings, and regulations for clients and the client community. The applicant is involved with outreach, community education, and works with the community to further the mission of LSLA. The successful applicant may supervise and coordinate activities of subordinate legal, clerical, volunteer, or student workers. The applicant will be expected to handle a caseload, major litigation, attend evening legal clinics, and participate in community education. Bilingual (Spanish & English) speaking/writing skills preferred.

Requirements:

Minimum Education and Experience

Graduate of an accredited Law School

Licensed to practice in Texas or qualify for reciprocity

Prior legal services or public interest experience preferred

Minimum Skills and Abilities

Strong legal writing and oral communication skills

Demonstrated client service orientation

Skilled in interviewing, assessment, problem solving and negotiation

Strong ability to work under pressure and make decisions quickly

Demonstrated ability to aggressively pursue the rights of the client community

Energetic, motivated, and self-starter

Location: Eviction Right to Counsel Project-Greater Houston Area Branch Office. The successful applicant must have reliable transportation to travel throughout all Texas counties served by this office.

BENEFITS:

Medical Benefits

Paid Leave

Lone Star Legal Aid is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or veteran status.