Greater Boston Legal Services has an opening for a staff attorney with 3-5 years’ experience to work in the Housing Unit, focusing on representing tenants with disabilities who live in public and subsidized housing, with a particular focus on tenants who have Section 8 vouchers.
The threat of homelessness places unbearable stress on some of the most vulnerable individuals and families in our community, many of whom include people with disabilities. This position will involve representing clients in individual cases challenging termination of Section 8 benefits, appealing Section 8 terminations in the Housing Court, seeking accommodation of disability-related needs, and defending tenants from eviction in court. The attorney, working as part of the GBLS Housing Unit, will use individual cases to promote systemic change. While eviction defense and subsidy preservation work will be the primary focus, the attorney also may represent tenants in eviction cases where the family would not be eligible for shelter if evicted, cases where the basis for eviction is no-fault, and shelter termination.
The position involves responsibility for client cases including interviews, factual investigation, research and analysis of law, development of written and oral legal arguments, negotiation with opposing counsel, preparation for and handling of administrative and court hearings. The position may also include legislative advocacy, policy advocacy, law reform work, and supervising law students and volunteer interns. Participation in fundraising from foundations, managing and reporting on grants that fund this work is required. This position also includes conducting and leading trainings for the community, social workers, medical professionals and attorneys.
Salary is based on union scale. GBLS provides excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance and student loan repayment assistance plan for eligible attorneys.
Qualifications include 3-5 years of experience. Experience in housing law and/or courtroom experience. Written and oral competency in Spanish is preferred. Admission to the Massachusetts Bar is required.
Candidates should submit a cover letter indicating the reason for interest in this position, resume, and a brief writing sample to Sonia Marquez, Director of Human Resources via email at [email protected]. Please refer to job code: HU-ATT when applying for this position. Deadline is November 6, 2018 or until position is filled.