Attorney – Eviction Defense Center (LB)

The Organization:

LAFLA is a nonprofit law firm that protects and advances the rights of the most underserved—leveling the playing field and ensuring that everyone can have access to the justice system. Celebrating 95 years of service to Los Angeles communities, LAFLA is the first and most experienced legal aid organization in Greater Los Angeles. LAFLA has more than 200 employees, including more than 100 attorneys, who provide free services and resources on a broad range of civil legal issues that impact healthy, safety, and self-sufficiency. Every year, LAFLA helps more than 100,000 people find their voice, regain control of their lives, and build a brighter future. Our unique combination of neighborhood offices, self-help centers at courthouses, and domestic violence clinics puts LAFLA on the frontlines in communities at the forefront of change. LAFLA also engages in impact litigation to help enact long-term systemic change—actively collaborating with a network of public and private partners to expand access to justice, identify needs in the communities we serve, and change laws and policies that adversely affect the underserved.

About the role

Stay Housed L.A. is a new project to bring much-needed eviction defense resources to tenants in Los Angeles County communities and may be the first step towards a “Right to Counsel” for tenant eviction defense. LAFLA’s Eviction Defense Center, which supports Stay Housed L.A., will work in collaboration with other internal and external eviction defense projects as well as a multi-organizational coalition.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal representation to low-income tenants facing eviction in Los Angeles County.
• Advocate for tenants’ rights and ensure fair treatment in court proceedings.
• Collaborate with community organizations and legal aid providers to address systemic issues contributing to evictions.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase access to legal representation for tenants.
• Conduct intake assessments and case management for clients.
• Engage in impact litigation to challenge unfair housing practices and advocate for policy changes.
• Train and mentor paralegals and legal workers.
• Participate in community outreach events to educate tenants about their rights and available resources.

Requirements

• J.D. degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to practice law in California.
• Experience in civil litigation, particularly in housing law.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to social justice and serving the most vulnerable populations.

Qualifications

• Passionate about providing legal services to low-income tenants.
• Experience working with diverse communities and understanding the challenges faced by marginalized groups.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective negotiation and advocacy abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with legal research and document preparation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary of $85,000k - $116,328.37k annually, commencing on date of hire.
• Excellent benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.
• Professional development opportunities and support for continuing legal education.
• Flexible work schedule to accommodate the needs of low-income clients.
• Opportunities for career advancement within the organization.

Pay

• $85,000k - $116,328.37k annually, DOE.

Schedule

• Full-time position.