Temporary Staff Attorney - Consumer & Housing (2 Vacancies)

The Northwest Justice Project (NJP) has received one-time funding from Legal Services Corporation (LSC) to expand its capacity to serve the expected increase in need for our services arising out of the COVID-19 emergency. As a result, NJP will add two temporary Staff Attorneys in our CHEER unit that supports areas of consumer and housing law. All NJP staff attorneys serve as part of a statewide team of legal services advocates who work cooperatively, with other providers, to bring high quality representation to low-income Washingtonians in the areas of consumer, housing, and employment law. The anticipated employment duration of this position is July 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020. These positions will be located in NJP’s Seattle or Everett office, but may also include remote work as required by the changing needs of the COVID crisis.

Preferred qualifications include two years’ prior experience in all aspects of civil litigation with emphasis on issues that impact low-income persons in Washington. Experience in affirmative litigation in state or federal court and experience in addressing systemic issues is a plus. Applicants should be culturally competent and have demonstrated commitment to working with low-income client communities, communities of color, limited English speakers and persons with disabilities. Washington State Bar Association membership in good standing, the ability to acquire membership through reciprocity, or ability to take the next Washington bar exam is required.

Demonstrated experience and/or connection to NJP’s client communities is preferred.

NJP has an organizational commitment to fight racism and to incorporate equity and inclusion in both the work we do and work environment we create. All staff are expected to uphold this commitment and approach their role with a desire to learn and grow in this area.

JOB DUTIES:
The CHEER staff attorney will undertake a range of duties including, but not limited to:
• Work collaboratively with office team to provide day-to-day legal assistance and direct representation to eligible clients in the substantive areas of consumer and/or housing. There is also potential for advocacy in education and employment law.
• Use strategic methods and a broad range of advocacy tools to address high priority client needs, with particular focus on legal needs of persons and groups that experience special barriers to accessing housing or economic independence, including immigrants, seniors, persons with disabilities, and other groups.
• Develop collaborative working relationships with a statewide network of advocates working on similar issues and participate in advocacy task forces or work groups to address systemic issues that affect seniors, low-income persons, and vulnerable communities in Washington.
• Engage with client community and participate in legal education events for client groups, social and human services providers, justice system stakeholders, and serve as a resource to other advocates on areas of current or acquired expertise.
• Utilize NJP’s case management and timekeeping systems and comply with all applicable regulatory requirements and reporting needs.
• Help identify and develop on-line resources for use by attorneys and/or unrepresented litigants on matters within areas of expertise.
• Support the work of NJP partners including private attorneys, programs serving the needs of unrepresented litigants, other legal aid providers and interested parties and organizations addressing the legal needs of low-income persons.

COMPENSATION:
Starting salary is based upon years of experience, with an annual salary range starting at $63,233 to $118,185. We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes 100% paid employee health premiums and significant premium shares for family health premiums, as well as generous time off.

Hours of work: NJP’s typical client office hours are 9:00 – 5:00, Monday through Friday. Attorney positions are exempt and those in the position are expected to work the hours needed to meet the professional responsibilities.

To Apply: Submit a letter of interest, current resume and writing sample to Victoria Hester at [email protected]. Cover letter and email subject line should clearly reference “Temporary Staff Attorney CHEER – King County.” Cover letter should include description of any past experience, personal or professional, with low income or other marginalized communities. The Northwest Justice Project is especially interested in qualified candidates whose professional, personal and/or service experience allow them to contribute to and support the legal aid community’s commitment to race equity.

Application deadline: Applications will be considered as they are received and until the position is filled.

NJP is committed to a policy of equal opportunity and fosters an environment free of barriers and discriminatory practices. NJP actively promotes mutual respect, acceptance, teamwork and productivity. NJP is committed to maintaining an organization whose staff, Board and clients are diverse in background, experience, race, color, national origin, gender, age, religious reference, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sensory, mental or physical abilities, veteran status, and other qualities that strengthen the program while reinforcing its commitment to basic fairness. People of color, people who identify as transgender, lesbian, gay, or bisexual, and those with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals needing a reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process or for more information about the project should contact Victoria Hester at 206-707-0998.