Staff Attorney Older Adults Unit

About the role

CLS is a full-service civil legal aid law firm that promotes equal access to justice, focusing on the most vulnerable individuals in our society. This position represents low-income individuals and other vulnerable populations, including older adults and caregivers, in a broad range of elder law matters.

Responsibilities

• Regular client interaction includes completing intakes, conducting interviews, and providing legal assistance such as brief advice, limited services, and full representation.
• Research and interpret laws, rulings, and regulations applicable to cases assigned as well as prepare and review legal writings for the court or administrative agencies.
• Representing and advising clients in a variety of civil law matters affecting clients' independence, including, but not limited to: elder abuse, financial exploitation, public benefits, long-term care benefits, landlord/tenant issues, foreclosure prevention, homestead issues, debt collection, consumer scams, guardianship, income instability, and family law matters.
• Developing and maintaining a referral process between community partners and CLS.
• Identifying legal needs of older adults and caregivers and developing legal educational programs to address those needs.
• Cultivating and coordinating effective working relationships with professionals and faith or community-based organizations, to assure CLS’s positive impact on its clients served and create awareness.
• Provide legal assistance to older adults and caregivers ranging from pro se assistance to full representation.
• Participate in outreach events and provide community education.
• Identify and participate in impact advocacy that impacts older adults and caregivers.
• Supervise paralegals and other subordinates in all aspects of their work.

Requirements

• Commitment to promoting the mission, vision, and values of CLS.
• Unwavering dedication to high-quality legal programs, fiscal strength, and organizational integrity.
• Admitted to practice law in Florida and in good standing with The Florida Bar.
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience working with low-income and/or vulnerable clients and communities on civil legal matters preferred.
• Significant experience representing clients and maintaining a caseload is required, significant legal experience in elder law preferred.
• Significant experience in litigation before courts and/or administrative agencies, preferred.
• Demonstrated initiative, sound independent legal judgment, and the ability to quickly build subject-matter knowledge.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, with the ability to engage a diverse constituency with empathy and professionalism, particularly older adults and caregivers during challenging life events.
• Strong communication skills, writing skills, and work ethics are required.
• Demonstrated proficiency with technology-based tools to track time, manage caseloads, and support efficient practice.
• Maintain professional and legal knowledge through reading and continuing education.
• Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Able to attend meetings and/or other functions at various locations throughout service area.
• Computer literate using Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid Florida automobile license, use of own auto, and proof of insurance necessary.
• Able to travel to the offices within 12 county service areas and sometimes outside of service area.
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk, driving, and working on a computer.
• Able to lift to 25 pounds at times.

General Statement

CLS is an Equal Opportunity Employer: We value a diverse workforce and the promotion of inclusive culture at all levels. CLS does not discriminate against any employee or qualified applicant for employment from all qualified individuals on the basis of age, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, marital or familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, sex, disability, socio-economic position, religion, political belief, protected genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal or State law. The statements contained in this job description reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility. It should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise to balance the workload.

STARTING SALARY

$70,000, more with experience, PLUS 10% SIGN ON BONUS OF OFFERED SALARY