Staff Attorney, Housing

Jobtailor

Santa Ana (CA)

On-site

USD 75,000 - 110,000

Full time

4 days ago

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Job summary

CLA SoCal seeks a licensed attorney to manage a diverse caseload focused on unlawful detainer matters. You will advise tenants, negotiate settlements, handle trials, and supervise paralegals, law students, interns, and volunteers.

The role requires strong advocacy, research, and documentation skills, with a commitment to trauma-informed, client-centered service. You will participate in community outreach, know-your-rights presentations, and policy campaigns with partner organizations.

Qualifications

Juris Doctor degree required.
Active California Bar membership in good standing or eligible to register as a legal services provider.
Must be able to travel within the service area.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal document preparation software.

Responsibilities

Maintain a caseload representing tenants in unlawful detainer matters, including negotiations, settlements, and trials.
Advise tenants on landlord/tenant issues.
Conduct community outreach and know your rights presentations.
Draft legal documents and support negotiations and settlement discussions.

Skills

Litigation Experience

Landlord Tenant Law

Communication Skills

Bilingual Proficiency

Timekeeping in LegalServer

Education

Juris Doctor degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Legal Document Preparation Software

Job description

• Maintain a caseload representing tenants in unlawful detainer matters, including handling negotiations, settlements, and trials
• Advise tenants on landlord/tenant issues
• Participate in community groups and coalitions on issues impacting service-eligible populations
• Conduct community outreach, including know your rights presentations
• Maintain accurate case documentation and timekeeping in LegalServer
• Interview clients and conduct case investigations, witness interviews, and legal research
• Draft legal documents and support negotiations and settlement discussions
• Provide community education presentations and materials
• Engage in policy advocacy and collaborate in policy campaigns with partner community-based organizations
• Direct and supervise the legal work of paralegals, law students, interns, and volunteers
• Identify wrap-around legal services and collaborate with CLA SoCal’s various legal units
• Work with a multi-cultural perspective
• Perform other duties as required to meet organizational needs

Requirements

Juris Doctor degree
Active member in good standing of the California Bar or member to another state bar and ability to register as a legal services provider
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation with the ability to travel regularly throughout the service area
Familiarity with landlord tenant law - Preferred
Litigation experience including propounding and responding to discovery, taking and defending depositions, and representing clients in trial - Preferred
Excellent written and verbal communication, advocacy, problem-solving, and computer skills
Strong work ethic with the ability to manage multiple priorities, stay organized, and meet deadlines independently
Ability to identify legal issues and provide timely counsel and guidance
Strong client service, interpersonal, and trauma-informed communication skills, including working with diverse and indigent populations
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and legal document preparation software
Reliable, detail-oriented team player with a collaborative mindset and commitment to continuous learning
Commitment to CLA SoCal’s values and mission - Required
Bilingual proficiency - Preferred

Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in landlord-tenant law, litigation, and legal advocacy while effectively managing a diverse caseload and providing community education. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential for engaging with clients and community partners.

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