Family Law Staff Attorney

Overview

Reports to the Managing Attorney of the Family Unit, Family Unit Team Lead, or designee. This Staff Attorney position provides services to clients who are survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence. The attorney shall provide services ranging from advice, pro se assistance, and full representation with a focus on divorce, paternity, and other related family law matters.

Responsibilities

• Determine client eligibility for legal services in accordance with program policies and procedures.
• Provide legal services to eligible clients and client groups including identification of legal problems, investigation, advice, negotiation, preparation of pleadings and discovery, and representation before court.
• Engage in litigation of family matters with advanced advocacy skills within the entire CLS twelve-county service area.
• Must be willing to accept and demonstrate the core values of CLS and the CLS Family Law Unit.
• Travel when needed to represent clients as well as to attend CLS authorized training, meetings, and outreach events.
• Recruit and support private attorneys in CLS’s pro bono programs, including opportunities for co-counseling.
• Perform legal research including use of computer-based databases, such as Westlaw and computerized practice software such as Florida Family Law Software.
• Advance and maintain an active caseload.
• Complete and promptly submit all required reports, including timekeeping and work-related expenses.
• Represent CLS to other legal aid organizations, government officials, community partners, and the public.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with local bar associations, bar leaders, legislators, political officials, and community and nonprofit organizations—regularly engaging in meetings and collaborations to support resource development.
• Provide presentations to the public about the work and mission of CLS.

Requirements

• Commitment: Demonstrating commitment to promoting the mission, vision, and values of CLS. Unwavering dedication to high-quality legal programs, fiscal strength, and organizational integrity. Demonstrate commitment to ensuring appropriate recordkeeping, documentation, and adherence to federal rules and regulations that apply to LSC-funded programs, as they apply to the position.
• Background and Experience: Must be a member in good standing of The Florida Bar. Family law experience is preferred. Must have a demonstrable commitment to understanding and addressing issues of low-income clients. Ability to adapt quickly to job requirements and possess the ability to positively adapt to change. Must maintain professional and legal knowledge through reading and continuing education. Must be computer and technology literate specifically in using Microsoft Office Suite, legal research including use of computer-based databases, and additional legal software.
• Physical Requirements: Prolonged periods siting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times.

STARTING SALARY

$70,000, more with experience