We are seeking an attorney with experience bringing affirmative litigation against state and local governmental agencies and private entities on behalf of low-income clients. This position is with our Public Benefits and Economic Justice team and provides the exceptional attorney the opportunity to litigate on issues relating to a variety of safety-net programs in state and federal courts throughout California. The PBEJ team works in the areas of CalWORKs, CalFresh, SSI/SSP, General Assistance/General Relief, foster care, school meals, and criminal justice fees. The PBEJ team also works on issues related to homeless civil rights, access to the courts, immigrant rights, mental health services, debt collection and equitable pay. Western Center encourages collaboration across our program teams to identify opportunities for creative solutions to the issues facing our clients.
Candidates must have experience in all aspects of initiating and conducting affirmative litigation, from identifying causes of action to investigating facts; collaborating with community based partners; working with co-counsel; drafting pleadings and motions; conducting discovery, etc. In addition to litigation, all of our advocates conduct trainings for legal services staff members relating to our advocacy, and provide technical support to advocates at other organizations, as needed. This position reports to the Managing Attorney.
• Identify, initiate, conduct and maintain an affirmative litigation caseload, typically in the form of Section 1085 writ actions and class action lawsuits;
• Provide trainings and support to other legal services advocates around the state on litigation and public benefits-related matters, consistent with Western Center’s role as a statewide legal services support center;
• With the Public Benefits and Economic Justice team, identify team priorities and plan and implement advocacy strategies related to welfare issues;
• Assist Sacramento policy advocates on drafting and analyzing legislation and budget bills;
• Work closely with legal services programs statewide to identify potential welfare cases and provide litigation support, including co-counseling and mentorship;
• Support Western Center litigation colleagues with their cases when needed;
• Work within a team while engaging in most work independently; and
• Other duties as assigned.
• A minimum of five years of experience for a staff attorney, or a minimum of eight years of experience for a Senior Attorney, litigating in diverse forums, including a familiarity with appellate advocacy;
• A working knowledge and experience litigating in at least one of the following programs/areas: CalWORKs; CalFresh; General Assistance/General Relief; SSI/SSP; criminal justice fines and fees;
• The interest and ability to lead litigation teams and perform the necessary duties of a successful lead counsel;
• Excellent writing and oral communication skills;
• A demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and in political or potentially sensitive settings;
• Ability to think creatively, be strategic, and exercise good judgment;
• Ability to establish and maintain collaborative working relationships;
• Experience in a legal services program preferred, or working with underrepresented populations;
• Experience with posting on social media platforms as an advocacy tool preferred; and
• Membership in the California State Bar is required at the time of hiring or within six months.
• Exemplary ethical standards.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint) and related office and design software.
• Commitment to social justice and the mission of Western Center.
• Polished, professional and positive demeanor.
• Broad-minded, placing high value on diversity of thought, backgrounds and perspectives.
Applications accepted until the position is filled, but preference is to receive applications before March 30. Please email cover letter, resume, two writing samples, and list of references to Stephanie Surabian, Director of Finance and Administration, [email protected].