Housing Unit Staff Attorney

Acadiana Legal Services Corporation; Lake Charles (LA); On-site; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent fringe benefits

Job summary

A non-profit legal services provider in Lake Charles, Louisiana is seeking licensed, full-time staff attorneys to represent low-income and elderly clients with civil legal matters, particularly in housing law. The position includes providing legal representation, conducting research, and participating in legislative advocacy. Ideal candidates will possess a J.D. or LLM degree, be licensed to practice in Louisiana, and have a commitment to serving low-income clients. Exceptional benefits and a supportive environment are provided.

Qualifications

• Possession of a J.D. or LLM degree from an accredited law school.
• Current licensure to practice, including membership in the Louisiana State Bar.
• Experience in civil trial and appellate practice is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality legal representation to low-income clients.
• Conduct interviews, research, and prepare pleadings.
• Represent clients in court and administrative hearings.
• Analyze legislation and participate in bar activities.

Skills

Knowledge of judicial and civil procedures

Litigation skills/trial practice

Proficiency in legal research methods

Strong organizational skills

Strong interpersonal skills

Effective written and oral communication skills

Knowledge of LSC federal regulations

Education

J.D. or LLM degree from an accredited law school

Current licensure to practice in Louisiana

Job description

Acadiana Legal Service Corporation Housing Unit seeks licensed, full-time staff attorneys to represent low-income and elderly clients with civil legal matters, including eviction defense, foreclosures, and general housing law. Excellent fringe benefits

NATURE OF WORK

This position provides high-quality legal services to low-income clients under the mentorship and consultation of a Senior Attorney. This position is expected to use professional judgement and skill in carrying work to completion.

Note: According to Legal Services Corporation regulations, 45 CFR Part 1604: Outside practice of law, prohibits an outside practice of law while employed full-time at ALSC.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide high-quality legal representation to individuals in accordance with the Code of Professional Responsibility. This includes interviewing clients, conducting research, factual investigation, preparing pleadings, negotiating case resolutions, discovery and motion practice, and representing clients in court and administrative hearings
• Provide counseling, advice, and other brief services such as pro se forms and referrals, as appropriate
• Represent clients and client groups in litigation, administrative advocacy, as well as other advocacy.
• Co-counsel with Senior and/or Supervising Attorneys
• Develop and implement litigation and/or advocacy strategies to address systemic legal problems
• Analyze and comment on pending legislation and regulations consistent with the requirements of all funding sources
• Participate in task forces, work groups, and bar activities, and establish effective working relationships with the bar and community partners
• Comply with LSC and other funding agencies’ rules and regulations
• Participate in training activities as a trainee or trainer for professional growth as well as required CLE credits
• Keep abreast of legal trends, pending litigation, and regulations consistent with the requirements of all funding sources
• Shall work closely with the clerical staff in their substantive unit under the guidance established by the Unit Managing Attorney
• Other duties as assigned

NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

• Knowledge of judicial and civil procedures, substantive law, appellate practice, and rules of evidence within their substantive Unit’s practice field
• Litigation skills/trial practice at city and district court levels
• Proficiency in legal research methods, particularly web-based resources
• Strong organizational skills and ability to interpret and apply legal principles to complex problems
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, courts, public officials, community representatives, and the general public
• Effective written and oral communication skills, proficiency in computer usage, and the ability to effectively utilize a case management system
• Knowledge of LSC federal regulations, Case Service Report (CSR) requirements, ALSC policies, Unit policies, and other practices necessary for ensuring compliance

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Possession of a J.D. or LLM degree from an accredited law school
• Current licensure to practice, including membership in the Louisiana State Bar
• Experience in the substantive area of the Unit’s practice, encompassing civil trial and appellate practice, is desirable
• Demonstrated ability to meet job expectations with limited supervision
• A professional, courteous demeanor, with a strong commitment to serving low-income clients

SALARY AND BENEFITS