Staff Attorney

Legal Aid of Middle Tennessee

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Job Summary

We are seeking an attorney for our Eviction Right to Counsel Project in Nashville. The Eviction Right to Counsel Project is a grant-funded project wherein low- and moderate-income tenants facing eviction will receive legal representation to ensure equity and inclusion in the legal system. The Eviction Right to Counsel Attorney will provide legal representation to income-eligible clients in cases involving tenants’ rights (public/subsidized housing, Section 8, private landlord/tenant, and fair housing). As part of a holistic approach, representation may include administrative advocacy, litigation in state and federal courts, real-time response to tenant hotline questions, and community education for clients in accordance with LASMTC’s guidelines and priorities and the Rules of Professional Conduct. This position is funded in part by and in collaboration with, one or more grants. Personnel must adhere to the goals and outcomes detailed in the grant contract. This position is funded for the duration of the grant and subsequent renewal may result in modification of job duties and responsibilities. 

Job Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality legal representation to individuals in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct. Review and supervise the work of support staff members done on behalf of the attorney’s clients and clients assigned to support staff.
• Work with members of the private bar and the LAS Volunteer Lawyer Program to promote private bar involvement. Create and maintain positive working relationships with organizations in the service area and state which would benefit the client population.
• Maintain accurate and orderly client files, adhering to case management database policies and guidelines.
• Participate in the firm’s community education program, by being available to speak with community groups and agency staff, suggesting ideas for and helping to prepare and update community education materials.
• Participate in firm-wide practice groups.
• Comply with relevant portions of the Legal Services Corporation’s Performance Criteria and with the American Bar Association’s Standards for the Provision of Civil Legal Aid.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD).
• Admitted to practice in Tennessee, eligible for admission through reciprocity, or willing to take the first available bar examination.
• Excellent research, writing, and advocacy skills including the ability to advocate in a clear, effective, and logical manner both orally and in writing.
• Basic proficiency in Windows and Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel software.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, including in client interviews and helping persons in crisis. Prioritize work, plan and problem-solve, meet deadlines, and work well under pressure.
• Fluency in written and spoken Spanish or Arabic is a plus.

Additional Information

Benefits

How to Apply

Email a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and three references (with email addresses and phone numbers) to our Hiring Manager at hr@las.org. The subject line should read ERTC Attorney.

Details

• Date Posted: March 23, 2024
• Type: Full-Time
• Job Function: Legal
• Service Area: Housing
• Salary Range: $65,000-$75,000