Staff Attorney - Seattle, WA

National Legal Aid & Defender Association; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 71,000 - 108,700; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employer-paid medical, dental, vision

403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution

20 days PTO and eleven paid holidays

Job summary

National Legal Aid & Defender Association in Seattle seeks a Staff Attorney to lead or co-counsel in civil rights litigation. Responsibilities include devising litigation strategies, conducting research, and supervising staff.

The ideal candidate will possess a Juris Doctor, have bar membership, and experience in federal and state court litigation related to civil rights and immigration. The role offers a salary between $71,000 and $108,700 annually along with comprehensive benefits including medical coverage, a retirement plan, and paid time off.

Qualifications

• Active bar membership in one or more states.
• Eligibility for active bar membership in Washington.
• Federal and state court litigation experience.

Responsibilities

• Devise and execute strategic plans in complex litigation.
• Conduct depositions and discovery proceedings.
• Perform legal research and draft legal documents.
• Supervise volunteer and professional support staff.

Skills

Excellent research skills

Strong writing skills

Effective communication skills

Knowledge of civil rights

Fluency in Spanish

Education

Juris Doctor or equivalent degree

Instruction in public policy or social sciences

Job description

MALDEF is the nation’s leading nonprofit Latino civil rights law firm. Founded in 1968, MALDEF safeguards the civil rights of Latinos and increases the community’s ability to participate fully in American society. The firm seeks a Staff Attorney to serve as lead counsel or co‑counsel in state and federal court litigation in the areas of education, employment, immigrants’ rights and/or voting rights.

Job Responsibilities

• Devises and executes strategic plans in complex litigation under the supervision of Regional Counsel.
• Conducts depositions and discovery, negotiates and monitors settlement agreements, and pursues attorney fee awards in civil rights litigation.
• Performs legal research and drafts pleadings, briefs, and administrative complaints.
• Develops investigation plans, investigates potential legal claims, and prepares memoranda on budget and legal theory for approval by MALDEF management.
• Responds to media inquiries, gives public presentations, and prepares community education materials regarding Latino rights.
• Assists in developing long‑term strategic goals and objectives for assigned program areas and the regional office.
• Supervises volunteer and professional support staff assigned to litigative programs.

Qualifications and Experience

• Juris Doctor or equivalent degree required; active bar membership in one or more states required, with eligibility for active bar membership in Washington required.
• Undergraduate or graduate instruction in public policy and/or social sciences desirable.
• Federal and state court litigation experience, particularly in civil rights, immigration, or employment, desirable.
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skills required.
• Knowledge and awareness of local, regional, and national issues affecting the Latino community.
• Fluency in written and spoken Spanish preferred.
• Willingness and ability to engage in local and national travel as needed.

Compensation and Benefits

• $71,000 to $108,700+ per year, fixed salary scale commensurate with years of legal experience.
• Employer‑paid medical, dental, vision for employees and eligible dependents.
• Employer‑paid short and long‑term disability insurance; life insurance; employee assistance program.
• 403(b) retirement plan with direct employer contribution and match.
• 20 days of personal time (PTO) and eleven paid holidays each year.

Equal Opportunity Employer. Position open until filled.