Pasadena Self-Help Staff Attorney

Change Lives and Transform Communities – Join Our Self-Help Team!

Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County (NLSLA) provides free assistance to over 160,000 individuals and families each year through innovative projects that expand access to justice. We see the law as a powerful tool for social change and we’re looking for passionate individuals to help us fight for justice.

We value diverse perspectives and experiences, and we believe that a strong community is built through inclusivity. NLSLA is proud to foster an environment that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and abilities, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

About the Role

NLSLA seeks an attorney to work in the Self-Help Center at the Pasadena Courthouse. The attorney is responsible for working with court and NLSLA staff and volunteers. The staff attorney will meet with self-represented individuals seeking assistance on civil court matters, primarily focusing on housing issues, and providing educational materials and information.

In this role, you would report to the Associate Supervising Attorney. This position is exempt and temporary.

What You’ll Do

• Provide information, resources, and assistance to self-represented individuals in person and remotely.
• Train and oversee the work of volunteers and staff.
• Work with court staff in the daily operation of the Pasadena Self-Help Center.
• This position is designated as hybrid. Employees are required to work on-site a minimum of two (2) days per week, with the remaining time eligible for remote work as business needs allow. Specific in-office days may be set by the department or manager to support team collaboration and organizational priorities.
• Travel to NLSLA program offices, courthouses, and other locations throughout Los Angeles County may be required.

What You’ll Need

• A JD from an accredited law school and an active California State Bar license.
• Ability to work closely with individuals from different backgrounds with both effectiveness and compassion.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel, business communication platforms, and web-based case management platforms.
• Passion for NLSLA mission and demonstrated commitment to advocating for the legal rights of low-income individuals. 
• Passion, empathy, and compassion for supporting people from different lived experiences.

Bonus Points

• Have experience working in a legal aid setting.
• Have experience working with and training volunteers.
• Have experience in housing or family law.
• Are bilingual in Spanish, due to the high number of Spanish-speaking residents in the community, or in any of the other Los Angeles threshold languages, which is highly valued in our community outreach efforts.

Why You’ll Love Working with Us

At NLSLA, we believe in supporting our staff as they grow in their careers and live balanced lives. We offer:

• Competitive Salary: $78,000–$86,000, based on experience.
• Generous Time Off: 15 paid holidays, 2 to 5 weeks of vacation depending on seniority, and 12 days of sick leave. Exempt employees are eligible for compensatory time in accordance with company policy.
• Comprehensive Benefits:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with a variety of plan options.
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance, Long-Term Disability Insurance.
• 403(b) retirement plan and options for voluntary contributions.
• Monthly bilingual supplement for qualified employees.
• Loan Repayment Assistance Program, which provides law school student loan repayment assistance for eligible individuals.
• A Culture of Inclusion: We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive.
• Perks: Technology reimbursement to help you stay connected and equipped to do your best work.