Job Description
CCLS, a legal services organization, is seeking a full-time Staff Attorney to join their dynamic Housing Team in Central California. The Staff Attorney will work with a team to provide legal services to low-income individuals in the Central Valley, with a focus on preventing homelessness and improving housing conditions. The salary for this position ranges from $68,133 to $92,703 per year.
Program Description
For over 50 years, CCLS has been dedicated to providing high quality, no-cost civil legal services to low-income individuals and families in Merced, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Fresno, Tulare, and Kings Counties. With a team of over 90 employees, CCLS works towards improving the well-being of the Central Valley through advocacy, client education, and individualized legal services. They also collaborate with community organizations to support their clients in creating positive change in their lives.
Job Description
The Staff Attorney will play a crucial role in CCLS' Housing Team, which oversees and implements projects aimed at preventing homelessness. This includes representing clients in eviction defense cases and affirmative litigation, as well as providing general legal support to clients across the Central Valley. The Staff Attorney will also participate in community outreach events and legal clinics in partnership with community-based organizations. They will also work with volunteer attorneys from private law firms to provide pro bono representation to clients facing eviction or uninhabitable housing conditions. The Staff Attorney's work will help ensure safe and affordable housing for individuals and families in the Central Valley.
Responsibilities
- Carry a caseload of eviction defense and affirmative litigation cases - Negotiate with opposing counsel and work directly with clients to prevent homelessness and improve housing conditions - Prepare legal documents and pleadings - Conduct unlawful detainer trials and pursue appellate remedies - Participate in community outreach events and legal workshops - Maintain relationships with colleagues, pro bono attorneys, and community partners - Attend trainings and provide training to other CCLS staff - Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Active member in good standing of the State Bar of California - Minimum three years of legal experience as a practicing attorney - Collaborative and team-oriented - Able to work independently and under pressure - Excellent communication and negotiation skills - Organized and detail-oriented - Able to work with a diverse range of clients - Bilingual abilities preferred - Commitment to CCLS' mission and core values - Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion - Willingness to travel and provide proof of liability and property insurance for personal vehicle
CCLS Mandatory Vaccination Policy
CCLS currently requires all staff to be fully vaccinated and have at least one booster, with exemptions available for medical and religious reasons.
CCLS is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion. They encourage individuals from all backgrounds and identities to apply for this position. CCLS is also subject to a Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Salary Information
- Job Title: CCLS Staff Attorney - Housing Team - Job Type: Full-time - Salary: $68,133 to $92,703 per year
