Legal Self-Help Director

About the role

The Douglas County District Court Legal Self-Help Center (SHC) provides legal information to people who handle their civil legal matters without a lawyer. The ideal candidate will be an attorney with significant experience in domestic, probate, or other civil matters (eviction is a common topic), along with a strong desire to help develop the SHC mission of advancing access to justice for all members of our community. While some aspects of the position have the potential to involve legal analysis and decision-making on behalf of the Center, the Director will be prohibited from practicing law, including acting as legal counsel to any person utilizing the SHC or its resources.

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess self-represented litigant needs
• Provide accurate procedural information
• Create and update legal forms and informational packets as needed
• Recruit, train, and supervise staff and volunteers
• Develop policies, procedures, and practices to ensure compliance with Kansas law and local court rules
• Understand and monitor changes that impact information provided to self-represented litigants
• Develop evaluation tools and maintain statistical records on SHC services
• Prepare reports and complete assignments as requested by the Chief Judge to improve the SHC
• Maintain a positive relationship with judges, court staff, and county administration
• Supervise a combination of paid staff and unpaid volunteers
• Work with District Court staff and community partners to expand awareness of the SHC's role
• Develop relationships with other community entities that might integrate with the SHC

Requirements

• An attorney in good standing and licensed to practice law

Preferred Qualifications

• Working knowledge and experience with court processes and procedures, legal terminology, and legal documents
• Familiarity with privacy requirements related to court records
• Strong customer service skills
• Interpersonal and human relations skills
• Knowledge of and experience applying the principles and practices of management and supervision
• Computer literacy
• Ability to interact positively with others from a wide range of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds
• Ability to excel in a fast-paced environment where critical thinking and strong problem-solving skills are required
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong desire to serve the public

Pay

Beginning salary $85,193.95. After 6 months eligible for increase to $87,249.18. After one year, eligible for an increase to $93,889.70.