Senior Staff Attorney, Housing Justice & Eviction Defense

The Public Law Center (PLC); Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Public Law Center in Orange County seeks a highly skilled Senior Staff Attorney to support its Housing and Homelessness Prevention Unit. You will provide direct representation for low-income tenants, lead community outreach, and collaborate with staff, volunteers and partners to advance access to affordable housing.

The role requires active California Bar membership, at least five years of experience with three in state court litigation, and strong written and public speaking skills.

Qualifications

• Active membership in the California State Bar or eligibility to practice.
• Minimum of five years’ experience, with at least three years in state court litigation.
• Experience in housing and unlawful detainer cases preferred.
• Excellent written communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and LegalServer.
• Strong public speaking abilities and audience engagement.
• Must work from the office several days a week; partial remote work may be requested.
• Located in Southern California; willingness to travel across Orange County and surrounding counties.

Responsibilities

• Handle a diverse caseload for low-income tenants, including eviction defense, discrimination, and other housing issues.
• Assist with impact litigation and policy advocacy.
• Monitor legal changes and ensure regulatory compliance for housing services.
• Mentor and train less-experienced staff; coordinate with volunteers and pro bono attorneys.
• Participate in internal initiatives and external events; conduct trainings and community education.

Skills

Litigation

Legal writing

Public speaking

Office software

Education

California Bar admission

Tools

Microsoft Office

LegalServer

Job description

The Public Law Center in Orange County seeks a highly skilled Senior Staff Attorney to support its Housing and Homelessness Prevention Unit. You will provide direct representation for low-income tenants, lead community outreach, and collaborate with staff, volunteers and partners to advance access to affordable housing.

The role requires active California Bar membership, at least five years of experience with three in state court litigation, and strong written and public speaking skills.