Job Number: 01-260217-01: Staff Attorney- Housing Law Program

Company Name:  Legal Aid of Eastern Missouri



Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, Inc., a non-profit law firm that provides free legal assistance to people living with low income/low opportunity, is seeking two full-time Staff Attorneys to work in its Housing Law Program. This program assists families and individuals facing eviction, loss of housing assistance, poor living conditions, discrimination and other housing issues.


The Staff Attorney will work with low-income families and individuals providing legal representation in state court and administrative proceedings. Additionally, this position may involve systemic advocacy through impact litigation in state and federal court, community lawyering and outreach, and other forms of broad-based advocacy as appropriate.


Responsibilities
· Conducting client interviews, investigation, and fact gathering;

· Drafting pleadings, written discovery, correspondence, and memoranda;

· Conducting legal research and analysis;

· Engaging in trial work and making other court appearances;

· Conducting discovery, document review, and taking depositions;

· Participating in community outreach and presentations;

· Working collaboratively with other Legal Services programs and community partners; and

· Other work as assigned or taken on.

Requirements
· JD and admitted to practice in Missouri (or eligible to be admitted)

· At least 2 years of experience as a practicing attorney preferred, but not required

· Demonstrated commitment to public interest law work or to legal services for the poor strongly preferred

· Strong litigation and advocacy skills

· Ability to relate well and work with low-income clients and collaborate with community stakeholders

· Strong communication skills, work ethic, flexibility and teamwork

· Strong organizational skills

· Knowledgeable in Microsoft Office

· Familiarity with case management software preferred

· Open to creative and innovative ways of fulfilling the legal aid mission


What we do
LSEM advances justice through legal representation, education, and supportive services. We partner with the community to improve lives, promote fairness, and create opportunities for those in need. Since 1956, LSEM has provided high-quality civil legal assistance and equal access to justice for low-income people in 21 counties in Missouri. We accomplish our mission through systemic advocacy/impact litigation and individual case work in a wide range of substantive civil areas which are in our priorities, e.g., family law for victims of domestic violence, prevention of homelessness/housing, health, public benefits, consumer, education, disability, community economic development, and immigration. As part of our community education/outreach efforts, LSEM works with over 150 agencies and participates in over 35 task forces/coalitions and has a vibrant Volunteer Lawyers Program.


Who we are
At Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, we embrace a culture that celebrates and promotes the many backgrounds, heritages, and perspectives of our colleagues and clients. We seek to hire individuals from a variety of backgrounds, who are professional, collaborative, and creative thinkers with a passion for our mission, and create an environment where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from all qualified individuals and will make employment decisions based on merit.

Salary & Benefits Information
The annual salary range for this position is $66,000-$99,000. Specific salary offered to a candidate will be based on their relevant years of experience. There are opportunities for advancement, including raises. Excellent benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, a generous time off policy (starting at 4 weeks per year), 11 paid holidays, 12 weeks paid parental leave, 403(b) and 401(a) retirement plans, long-term disability and life insurance, employee assistance plan, and flexible spending accounts. An in-person/remote hybrid work option is also available.


Interested Parties/How to Apply:     

Upload your resume and cover letter through our online application using the link below. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Apply/3900504/Legal-Services-of-Eastern-Missouri-Inc/Staff-Attorney--Housing-Law-Program?source=mobar.org

Legal Aid of Western Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer  

Equal access to Legal Services of Eastern Missouri’s office is available.
Those applicants requiring accommodation to the interview/application process should contact the Human Resources Department at EEO@lawmo.org.