2 Staff Attorneys - Lansing (Hybrid)

About the role

The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking two full-time attorneys with a demonstrated commitment to public interest advocacy to serve as a Staff Attorney in our MI Community, Home, and Health Ombudsman Program. This program represents long term care consumers who want to receive services and support in their own homes and communities instead of in nursing homes as well as individuals with dual Medicare and Medicaid enrollment.

Responsibilities

• Managing an individual caseload
• Representing clients in administrative or court hearings
• Engaging in policy analysis and administrative advocacy
• Collaborating with community partners and state officials
• Drafting and maintaining educational materials
• Preparing regular reports for grant funders
• Outreach and training to consumers, advocates, and attorneys

Description of Program

MEJI advocates for and represents low-income older adults and people with disabilities on issues related to long term care, healthcare, benefits, elder abuse, and individual rights. MEJI houses the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program and the MI Community, Home, and Health Ombudsman, and it engages in litigation and systemic advocacy efforts on behalf of vulnerable adults. MEJI is part of Michigan Statewide Advocacy Services (MSAS), a non-profit law firm providing free legal services to individuals and families with low-income, Michigan’s immigrant communities, older adults and adults with disabilities through several statewide programs.

Qualifications

• Licensed to practice law in Michigan or qualified to be admitted by waiver
• Excellent communication, collaboration, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to balance varied responsibilities
• Proficient with major software and web services including Word, Excel, G Suite, and have access to a reliable internet connection
• Experience advocating for vulnerable populations, especially older adults or people with disabilities, is preferred

Benefits

• Full-time position with a salary starting at $60,000 depending on experience
• Generous benefits package including life, short- and long-term disability, health, vision, dental and flexible spending accounts
• Option for an annual $1,500 payout in lieu of health benefits
• Generous leave policy allowing staff to accrue 3 weeks paid vacation the first year and 15 paid holidays
• 401K retirement plan including employer match for eligible staff after 6 months of employment
• Qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness