Attorney

Way Finders•Springfield, MA

2d•$110,000 - $125,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Way Finders is a Top Workplaces for Nonprofit organization, named as an employer of choice because our employees said so! At Way Finders, we are passionately invested in lifting up the region’s people, places, and systems. Though our team performs a wide variety of functions, we are united by our shared mission: to build and advocate for a thriving region; to improve the stability and economic mobility of families and individuals; and to develop and manage a robust range of safe, affordable housing options. Interested in joining our team of dedicated professionals? Way Finders is currently seeking an Attorney. The Attorney assists the Legal department with legal issues, including work on contracts; litigation before the courts and administrative bodies; policies, compliance, and statutory and regulatory issues. The candidate may work in a hybrid-remote manner but must live within commutable distance to our main office in Springfield. In addition, regular travel to MA courthouses throughout the state is required.

Requirements

7 years' legal experience, 5 years relevant to the role’s duties, preferably in a nonprofit setting; those with less experience are encouraged to apply
Admitted to Massachusetts Bar
Excellent legal research (including beyond Westlaw and Lexis), writing, and oral argument skills
Strong strategic thinking and creative problem-solving skills
Advanced computer/software skills, and comfort learning new technologies
Ability to manage/meet short deadlines and shift priorities as necessary and appropriate in a fast-paced environment
Ability to be team-oriented, including having a willingness to collaborate on the Legal department’s projects and share joint ownership of the outcomes
Strong communication skills, including in building relationships across differences
Demonstrated good judgment in decision-making and the ability to maintain strict confidentiality
Ability to travel throughout Massachusetts to litigate cases

Nice To Haves

Preference for experience in litigation, contracts, and/or real estate, including in fair housing or social justice

Responsibilities

Assist with legal issues, including work on contracts; litigation before the courts and administrative bodies; policies, compliance, risk management, and statutory and regulatory issues
Provide advice and risk analysis concerning the applicability of and compliance with all federal/state statutes, regulations, and contracts that may impact agency programs, policies, operations, or spending activities including but not limited to, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Assist in developing and maintaining compliance functions
Handle litigation matters before courts and administrative bodies
Assist with informal hearings for appeals of termination of housing program benefits
Assist in maintaining new and current legal requirements; preparing and assisting with training seminars for organizational staff; and with conducting research
Proactively identify and suggest improvements for legal policies and risk management
Assist with document reviews and discovery
Monitor and perform legal research relative to federal, state, and local statutes, ordinances, and regulations
Conduct a broad range of legal research and analysis on matters related to the organization’s functions
Summarize research and legal findings into meaningful, pragmatic guidance
Proactively identify and suggest process improvements on an ongoing basis
Work cross-functionally to operationalize risk management policies and procedures