Rising for Justice (“RFJ”) invites applications for a full-time housing attorney to begin immediately. The attorney will be responsible for legal representation of low-income residents of Washington, D.C., in landlord-tenant disputes and housing-related cases.
About Rising for Justice
Created in 1969, RFJ, formerly known as D.C. Law Students in Court (“LSIC”), is the oldest clinical teaching program in the District of Columbia. RFJ currently operates as a public interest legal services provider and clinical education program. Our Eviction Defense Services program provides same-day and extended representation to low-income tenants in the D.C. Superior Court.
RFJ embraces equal justice and diversity as core values. We strive to maintain a workplace that is vibrant, welcoming, innovative, and collaborative. We are committed to fostering the thoughtful exchange of ideas and to ensuring that all voices are heard and respected. We seek a housing attorney who embraces our mission and values. Our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and non-discrimination includes race, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, personal appearance, genetic information, political affiliation, marital status, family responsibilities, disability, status as a veteran, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law or regulation.
Position Responsibilities
Responsibilities include: 1) providing direct client representation to tenants in eviction actions in the Landlord Tenant Branch of the D.C. Superior Court; 2) conducting client intake interviews and providing advice and brief legal services at D.C. Superior Court a minimum of two days per week; 3) coordinating with court-based and other legal services providers to streamline referrals and promote cooperation on systemic issues; 4) engaging in outreach and community education initiatives and building relationships with tenant and other community groups; and 5) participating in case acceptance conferences, attending staff meetings, assisting with organizational fundraising activities as needed, and ensuring the accurate and complete input of data in the office’s case management system.
Accountability: Reports to the Co-Directors of RFJ’s Eviction Defense Services.
Hours, Salary and Benefits: This is a full-time position based on a 40-hour work week. Salary is commensurate with experience. We offer an excellent benefits package, including employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance; generous sick, annual and personal leave; and paid federal and local holidays.
Qualification Requirements
The Housing Attorney must be a member of the D.C. Bar. He or she must have prior litigation experience, excellent communication skills, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, the ability to work in a fast-paced litigation environment and a desire to serve the community. Preferred qualifications include Spanish language skills, housing or consumer litigation experience, and prior poverty law experience. LSIC/RFJ alumni are encouraged to apply. The ideal candidate will have practiced as a legal services attorney for two to three years and will have a background in housing law.
To Apply: Each candidate should submit a cover letter and resume by email to Liz Kanne, Interim Office Manager, at [email protected]. Please indicate “Housing Staff Attorney, [your full name]” in the subject line of the email.