Domestic Violence Staff Attorney - Temporary

Founded in 1967, California Indian Legal Services (CILS) is the oldest public interest Indian rights law firm in the country, promoting the fundamental rights of California tribes and Indians through litigation, legislative and administrative advocacy, community development, and other strategies for systemic change. CILS provides a full range of legal representation to California Indian tribes and Indian organizations, advocates for the rights of California Indians at the local, state, and national levels, and offers direct services and community education to low-income Native American individuals on issues related to Federal Indian Law. CILS maintains four offices throughout California – Eastern (Bishop), Southern (Escondido), Northern (McKinleyville), and Central (Sacramento). This position is based in the Southern Office in Escondido, CA.

About the Role

The Special Projects Domestic Violence (DV) Staff Attorney will work collaboratively with the DV Advocate to provide exceptional legal services in domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking cases. This full-time exempt position serves clients in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties and requires travel throughout these areas for court appearances, client meetings, and outreach. The role includes general office and case management work. Preference is given to candidates residing near the Riverside and San Bernardino metro areas.

Responsibilities

• Provide culturally sensitive and trauma-informed legal representation and assistance to Native American and non-Native American survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault in state and Tribal Court, including but not limited to: Domestic Violence protection proceedings, child custody, divorce, civil harassment proceedings, and other legal matters.
• Manage an independent caseload with support and collaboration from the DV Directing Attorney.
• Work closely with the CILS DV Advocate on intake procedures, document collection, safety planning, and other case-related activities.
• Travel to meet with clients in Riverside and San Bernardino counties for interviews and court appearances.
• Collaborate with Strong Hearted Native Women’s Coalition, The Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians, and other tribal and non-tribal Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault organizations to develop partnerships for resource-sharing and referrals.
• Conduct walk-in clinics.
• Work with state, local, and tribal law enforcement to secure effective enforcement of Tribal Court Domestic Violence Orders.
• Attend Domestic Violence Advocate training and related conferences to stay current on developments in Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault in Indian Country.
• Manage and maintain a client caseload in a well-organized and professional manner.
• Carry out other duties as assigned.

Pay

Salary range is $77,435–$90,000 annually for full-time employment. This 6-month temporary position will be compensated on a prorated basis, approximately $38,718–$45,000 for the 6-month term.

Schedule

This position is based out of the Southern Office in Escondido, CA, Monday through Friday, but may be remote for CA residents living in the Riverside or San Bernardino Metro Area. Frequent travel to meet with clients and attend court, and occasional travel to the Southern Office, will be required. The position is intended to provide temporary coverage for approximately six months, with the possibility of extension, shortening, or conclusion based on organizational needs.

Benefits

• Sick leave