General responsibilities: interview prospective clients, assess legal problems, and provide legal advice; individual and systems advocacy in a variety of forums on behalf of clients; conduct factual investigations and analysis; legal research; prepare briefs and argue appeals; become proficient in law handled by the specific law project. See job description details at: https://www.vtlegalaid.org/MLP-staff-attorney
Duties and Responsibilities
· Interview prospective clients, assess legal problems, and identify appropriate legal advice and next steps.
· Conduct factual investigation and analysis, and legal research when appropriate.
· Prepare legal documents, pleadings, and motions.
· Communicate with clients as needed and in accordance with applicable rules.
· Represent clients in the courts, before administrative agencies, and in other appropriate forums.
· Provide information and advice to clinic staff.
· Train clinic staff to spot legal problems affecting patients’ health.
· Prepare briefs and argue appeals in Vermont courts.
· Where appropriate, identify and pursue systemic reform issues.
· Become proficient in all areas of law assigned by the MLP Director.
· Maintain all client files, records, and other data as required in the case management system.
· Maintain accurate and contemporaneous timekeeping for all work activities.
· Carry out administrative responsibilities as a VLA employee in a prompt and thorough manner (including following payroll and reimbursement request procedures), as well as grant-related data and document requirements.
· Produce written material for publication as required by the Director.
· Strategize with MLP staff on ways to better serve MLP clients.
Qualifications
· Licensed to practice law by the State of Vermont or eligible to waive into the Vermont bar
· Experience working with disadvantaged clients and meaningful practice experience in state courts
· Working knowledge of mortgage foreclosure, housing, and/or consumer law preferred though not required
· Commitment to social justice and housing access for all
· Experience and/or commitment to working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds
· Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills
· Commitment to working in a collaborative, team-based setting
· Ability and willingness to make decisions and solve problems creatively under tight deadlines
· High level of initiative and ability to plan
· Demonstrable organizational skills in managing complex workload
Application deadline is August 7, 2023. Your application should include a cover letter and resume, bar status (attorney only), writing sample, and three professional references with contact information, sent as a single PDF. Send your application by e-mail to [email protected], include in the subject line your name and “VLA MLP Attorney” August 2023. Please let us know how you heard about this position.