Director of Legal Services Attorney

Independence House, Inc. (IH) is a comprehensive domestic & sexual violence community-based agency and shelter program in Barnstable County that focuses on meeting the unique and cultural needs of survivors and their children. We provide safety, food, shelter, advocacy, counseling, and other resources to help survivors rebuild violence-free lives for themselves and their children. IH is committed to the values of inclusivity, equality, anti-oppression, a non-hierarchical structure, and a non-judgmental, empowerment framework. IH works closely with other agencies in the community to provide a comprehensive network of resources for survivors of violence and their children. IH works with these agencies and other community groups to provide education, prevention, and training about domestic & sexual violence toward community transformation and change. Please visit our website at www.independencehouse.org for more information.

Job Summary:

The Director of Legal Services is responsible for overseeing the IH Legal Services Program and carrying out related managerial duties. This role also includes providing legal representation, advice, and referrals for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse in the areas of Family Law and Protective Orders. The Director plays an essential part in supporting survivors by providing legal information, guidance, and resources that help them navigate critical situations.

PRIMARY DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Answer incoming calls to Independence House for Domestic Violence Legal Assistance.
• Conduct legal interviews at Independence House locations.
• Provide legal advice regarding non-criminal issues.
• Provide full and limited assistance representation to Survivors in Probate Court for family law matters, and in Probate Court and District Courts for Protective Orders.
• Provide legal consultations and referrals.
• Manage the Attorney Referral Panel, which is comprised of local private attorneys who accept referrals of IH clients on a reduced or no fee basis.
• Collaborate with other IH departments and community partners to provide comprehensive support to Survivors.
• Attend and participate in bi-weekly Agency staff and in-service meetings.
• Report data, compile reports, and assist with grant proposals.
• Provide appropriate referrals to outside agencies and services.
• Perform other duties as needed.
• Evening hours are required at least 1 to 2 days a week. Evening hours may include client support or court-related obligations.
• In-person position. 35 hours weekly (occasional evenings and weekends).

Qualifications/Skills

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) and a valid license to practice law in Massachusetts.
• Minimum of 5 years practicing law, including at least 3 years of family law experience, and 1
• year of supervisory experience.
• Commitment to IH's mission, vision, and values, including trauma and culturally informed practices.
• Strong leadership and managerial skills.
• Demonstrate values of teamwork and cooperation.
• At least 1 year of experience handling domestic violence and family law cases, including specific case types or client interactions, is required to ensure candidates meet the practical needs of the role.
• Demonstrated excellence in writing skills and commitment to victims of Barnstable County.
• Sensitivity to survivors of abuse.
• Required to participate in sexual assault and domestic violence trainings provided by Independence House, typically scheduled quarterly or as needed, along with other relevant training sessions.
• Increase and maintain knowledge and understanding of trauma-informed practice.
• A valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and willingness to travel throughout Cape Cod.
• Experience in Immigration Law is a plus.
• Proficiency in Brazilian Portuguese and/or Spanish is preferred but not required.

COMPENSATION/BENEFITS

• Salary Range: $80,000-$90,000. Starting salary within the posted range is based on experience, internal equity, and available budget.
• Generous paid vacation, sick and holiday time.
• Health, Life, and Disability insurance available.
• 403B available.
• Exempt.

To apply, send a resume and a cover letter by email to Lysetta Hurge-Putnam, Executive Director,

lysettah@indhouse.net. Resumes and cover letter are accepted until the position is filled.

Independence House, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, marital status, sexual orientation, medical condition, or disability, or on the denial of family medical leave or pregnancy leave. Independence House, Inc. is conducting this search.

• Generous paid vacation, sick and holiday time.
• Health, Life, and Disability insurance available.
• 403B available.
• Exempt.

Proficiency in Brazilian Portuguese and/or Spanish is preferred but not required.