Staff Attorney- Union, MO Office

Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, Inc. (LSEM) is a nonprofit law firm providing free, quality civil legal services to clients living with low income and limited opportunity. This full-time, hybrid Staff Attorney position is based in the Union, Missouri office, serving Franklin, Lincoln, Montgomery, Warren, and Washington counties. Three days per week in-office are expected; additional remote work may be authorized for court appearances.

About the role

The Staff Attorney will provide direct representation to clients in a range of civil legal areas, with a focus on family law for survivors of domestic violence—including orders of protection, divorce, custody, paternity, and minor guardianships. The role also involves representing tenants facing eviction or loss of housing assistance, consumers facing collection actions, and potentially addressing systemic issues affecting the client population. The position includes outreach, community education, and training on legal issues impacting clients. LSEM’s Union office practices holistic advocacy, and the Staff Attorney will collaborate closely with managing attorneys, social workers, paralegals, and other LSEM staff.

Responsibilities

• Handle all aspects of litigation, including drafting pleadings, discovery, motion practice, trial preparation, trials, and appeals as needed.
• Manage a diverse caseload across Warren, Lincoln, Franklin, Montgomery, and Washington counties.
• Identify and litigate systemic issues affecting low-income rural clients when possible.
• Conduct legal research and analysis.
• Perform community outreach and presentations.
• Collaborate with LSEM staff, other Legal Services programs, and community partners serving the client population.
• Other duties or tasks as assigned.

Requirements

• JD and admission to practice in Missouri (or eligibility for admission).
• Demonstrated commitment to public interest law or legal services for low-income individuals strongly preferred.
• Experience in family law and working with survivors of domestic or sexual violence preferred.
• Knowledge of USDA, HUD, and other housing regulations, as well as FDCPA and consumer protection laws, is helpful.
• Strong litigation and advocacy skills.
• Ability to relate well to low-income rural clients and collaborate with community stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, work ethic, flexibility, and teamwork.
• Strong organizational skills and openness to creative, innovative approaches to legal aid.
• Must have own transportation and ability to travel to courts and client meetings across multiple counties.

About LSEM

Legal Services of Eastern Missouri advances justice through legal representation, education, and supportive services. Since 1956, LSEM has provided high-quality civil legal assistance and equal access to justice for low-income individuals in 21 Missouri counties. The organization focuses on systemic advocacy and individual casework in priority areas such as family law for domestic violence survivors, housing/homelessness prevention, health, public benefits, consumer issues, education, disability, community economic development, and immigration. LSEM collaborates with over 150 agencies, participates in more than 35 task forces and coalitions, and maintains a vibrant Volunteer Lawyers Program.

LSEM embraces a culture that celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion, seeking to hire individuals from varied backgrounds who are professional, collaborative, and passionate about the mission. Employment decisions are based on merit.

Pay

The annual salary range for this position is $66,000–$99,000, with specific offers based on relevant years of experience. Opportunities for advancement and raises are available.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous time off policy (starting at 4 weeks per year).
• 11 paid holidays.
• 12 weeks paid parental leave.
• 403(b) and 401(a) retirement plans.
• Long-term disability and life insurance.
• Employee assistance plan.
• Flexible spending accounts.