Staff Attorney | Part-Time | Fort Thompson Office

Dakota-Plains-Legal-Services; Pierre (SD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

Dakota Plains Legal Services seeks a Part-time Staff Attorney to provide civil legal services to eligible clients in Fort Thompson and surrounding counties in South Dakota. The role involves managing cases independently and advocating for clients in court, while contributing to community partnerships.

The position offers flexible scheduling with a four-day workweek, Monday through Thursday, and responsibilities across Indian law, family law, housing, and income maintenance related matters.

Qualifications

• Hold a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
• Be licensed to practice in South Dakota, eligible for admission by reciprocity, or able to sit for the next SD Bar Exam.
• Able to independently manage assigned cases and responsibilities.
• Demonstrate strong written, verbal, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Show genuine interest in public interest law and serving low-income and Native American clients.

Responsibilities

• Interview and counsel clients to assess legal needs.
• Conduct legal research and prepare legal documents.
• Manage assigned cases from intake through resolution.
• Negotiate and advocate on behalf of clients.
• Represent clients in court and other proceedings.
• Maintain accurate and timely case records and documentation.
• Collaborate with staff and community partners to address client needs.

Skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Job description

Part-Time Position | 17 Hours Per Week | 34 Hours Per Pay Period

Are you an attorney looking for meaningful work with a schedule that offers flexibility? Dakota Plains Legal Services is seeking a part-time Staff Attorney to provide quality civil legal services to individuals, families, and communities in and around Fort Thompson, South Dakota.

About Dakota Plains Legal Services (DPLS)

For nearly 60 years, the mission of Dakota Plains Legal Services has been to promote equal access to justice and improve the lives of low-income clients through quality legal assistance. As a nonprofit organization, we provide legal representation, advocacy, and community education in Indian law, family law, health law, housing law, and income maintenance law. DPLS serves Native American and non-Native clients across South Dakota, with offices located on or near tribal nations.

About the Position

The Fort Thompson Staff Attorney provides civil legal assistance to eligible clients throughout the office's service area, which includes Brule, Buffalo, Hyde, and Lyman counties. The position may also involve representing clients in matters before the Crow Creek and Lower Brule tribal courts.

The Staff Attorney will independently manage assigned cases and provide legal representation and advocacy based on client needs and organizational priorities.

Responsibilities may include:

• Interviewing and counseling clients;
• Conducting legal research and preparing legal documents;
• Managing assigned cases from intake through resolution;
• Negotiating and advocating on behalf of clients;
• Representing clients in court and other proceedings;
• Maintaining accurate and timely case records and documentation; and
• Collaborating with DPLS staff and community partners to help address the legal needs of clients and communities.

Applicants must:

• Hold a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree;
• Be licensed to practice law in South Dakota, eligible for admission to practice in South Dakota by reciprocity, or qualified to sit for the next South Dakota Bar Examination;
• Be able to independently manage assigned cases and responsibilities;
• Possess strong written, verbal, organizational, and interpersonal skills; and
• Demonstrate an interest in public interest law and serving low-income and Native American clients and communities.

Schedule

This is a part-time position working 17 hours per week (34 hours per pay period). DPLS operates on a four-day workweek, Monday through Thursday.

Compensation:

Depending on experience.

Why Join Us?

At DPLS, your work has a direct impact on individuals, families, and communities throughout our service area. This part-time position offers an opportunity to use your legal skills in meaningful public interest work while maintaining a flexible schedule.

Closing Date:

Open until filled.

DPLS is committed to equal employment opportunities for all workers, regardless of race, gender, disability, or other protected class status. DPLS is committed to compliance with all federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws and regulations.