Staff Attorney - MCLA - Upper Marlboro Circuit Court Office (2051)

employment, and child custody.

 **A RESUME AND COVER LETTER ARE REQUIRED TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION** 

The Maryland Center for Legal Assistance (MCLA) announces an immediate opening for a full-time Staff Attorney position in the District Court Help Center in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Successful candidates will demonstrate an ability to handle a broad range of duties in a timely manner. Please find below a summary of the job description.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide brief legal advice and information to self-represented litigants in connection with civil legal issues including Landlord and Tenant Matters, Civil Claims, Expungement and Shielding of Records, Consumer Matters, Return of Property, Domestic Violence/Peace Orders, Family Law, and Foreclosure.
• Assist self-represented litigants in drafting their pleadings and motions, preparing for trial, completing court forms, and understanding court documents and the law.    
• Provide referrals to appropriate legal service organizations, agencies, and lawyer referral services wherever appropriate. 
• Be available to provide support to MCLA’s other offices as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the essential functions of the position.

 Qualifications:

• Admitted to practice in the State of Maryland. 
• One-year or more civil litigation experience, clinical or clerkship experience will be considered.
• Strong customer service skills including ability to empathize and assist people who are distressed.
• Ability to communicate complex legal concepts in simple terms.
• Ability to conduct rapid legal research. 
• Fluency in Spanish and American Sign Language strongly preferred.