Staff Attorney - Shriver Housing Project Los Angeles 

Change Lives and Transform Communities – Join Our Shriver Housing Project 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

We’re seeking a licensed attorney to join our eviction defense team. The Staff Attorney will be an integral part of a dynamic team of advocates at four public interest law offices working on a pilot project examining the impact of legal services on individuals, the court and the community in the Unlawful Detainer system. The attorney will defend tenants against eviction in cases in Los Angeles County. The attorney will work directly with clients and engage in all stages of litigation, including intake, pleadings, discovery, motions, hearings, settlement, administrative hearings, and trial. Addressing systemic issues through impact litigation in state and federal court. Working with community partners to develop resources and strategies for protecting homeowners and tenants; providing outreach and education to tenants and community groups; and assisting with some training of support staff. At times, the Staff Attorney will be responsible for working with NLSLA staff and volunteers to operate our self-help legal access center at the Stanley Mosk courthouse.

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

What You’ll Do

• Provide counsel and advice on a variety of housing matters and represent tenants in administrative hearings with local housing authorities and through trial in unlawful detainer proceedings.
• Manage a varied caseload.
• Prepare educational materials.
• Participate in community events.
• Collaborate with pro bono partners.
• Train and supervise students, support staff and other volunteers working with the program.
• This position may also include some work on policies issues related to housing/evictions and court appearances when appropriate.
• Travel to other NLSLA branch offices, courts, government agencies, shelters and community-based organizations in Los Angeles County may be required.

What You’ll Need

• A Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• An active California State Bar license.
• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent writing, speaking and organizational skills and the ability to communicate effectively with clients, community organizations, attorneys, the judiciary, and the public.
• Ability to work effectively with staff and volunteers.
• Enjoy working with the public and available to work core hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
• Passion about public service work.
• 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.
• Knowledge of MS Office, Windows, business communication platforms, and web-based case management platforms.

Bonus Points if You

• Are bilingual in Spanish, 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.
• Work-Life Balance: A 35-hour workweek and a hybrid work schedule to help you balance professional and personal commitments.
• Generous Time Off: 15 paid holidays, 2 to 5 weeks of vacation depending on seniority, and 12 days of sick leave. Compensatory time for exempt employees.
• 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 with employer contributions and options for voluntary contributions.
• Monthly bilingual supplement for qualified employees.
• Lawyer student loan reimbursement assistance program.
• 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.