Fair Housing Staff Attorney

Community Legal Services•Orlando, FL

4d•$75

About The Position

The Staff Attorney for the Fair Housing Unit will investigate and litigate housing discrimination cases in state and federal court a s well as before administrative agencies. The attorney will represent individuals that have been the victims of housing discrimination and use dispute resolution techniques, including litigation to pursue systemic change to end segregation and remove barriers to housing choice.

Requirements

Demonstrating commitment to promoting the mission, vision, and values of CLS
Unwavering dedication to high-quality legal programs, fiscal strength, and organizational integrity.
Admitted to practice law in Florida and in good standing (Admission to practice in the Middle District of Florida is required)
Minimum of 3 years’ litigation experience
Experience working with low-income and/or vulnerable clients and communities on civil legal matters preferred
Experience in landlord tenant, fair housing, litigation, and public speaking
Ability to advocate consistently and zealously for clients in the regions we serve while managing a full caseload
Successful candidate must be a self-starter, with the ability to issue spot and exercise sound independent legal judgment, work as part of a team, and bring oneself up to speed quickly on any necessary or lacking knowledge base
Ability to communicate clearly and persuasively both in writing and orally
Must possess a high capacity to prioritize, manage simultaneous tasks, and meet strict deadlines within a rapid-paced environment
Demonstrate a professional commitment to improving CLS’s presence in the regions we serve, possess strong interpersonal skills, and superior organizational skills, with the ability to engage a diverse constituency
Must be computer literate (Microsoft Office 365)
Proficient in Westlaw, LexisNexis, and/or other legal research platforms
Valid Florida automobile license, use of own auto, and proof of insurance necessary.
This is a full-time position with the ability to work both scheduled and flexible work hours, including some evenings/weekends, based on business needs.
Prolonged periods siting at a desk and working on a computer
Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times

Nice To Haves

Experience working with low-income and/or vulnerable clients and communities on civil legal matters preferred

Responsibilities

Determining client eligibility for legal services in accordance with program policies and procedures.
Representing clients on a broad range of Fair Housing topics throughout the CLS 12-county service area.
Traveling as necessary to represent clients as well as to attend CLS authorized trainings/ meetings and outreach events.
Investigating claims of housing discrimination in housing transactions such as rental, sale, financing, and insuring a home.
Providing high quality legal services including advocacy, counseling, and advice to clients from initial consultation to negotiations through civil litigation which can include court appearances, hearings and trials.
Drafting/reviewing of pleadings, memorandums, orders, and discovery.
Negotiating settlement agreements.
Filing state and federal court and administrative complaints, conducting discovery, depositions, motions, trials, and post-trial litigation.
Litigating complex cases in state and federal court under supervision of the Director of Litigation, Managing Attorney, or their designee.
Initiating and pursuing administrative claims through the Department of Administrative Hearings (DOAH).
Performing advanced legal research including use of computer-based databases, e.g., WestLaw, and computerized practice software such as PACER, e-filing portals, education platforms, etc.
Maintaining a regular, active caseload.
Working collaboratively with other programs and initiatives to promote housing justice and further equal access to housing for all.
Attend meetings and/or other functions, including but not limited to educational outreach events on Fair Housing topics, throughout the CLS twelve-county service area.
Working in a team environment, including providing and receiving guidance.
Providing comprehensive legal services to eligible clients in civil cases in accordance with CLS’s mission and priorities, other program policies, the ABA Standards for Providers of Civil Legal Services and the Rules Regulating the Florida Bar.
Attending training and conferences for educational purposes and to further fair housing.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

15 paid holidays and 24 days of paid time off
Excellent physical/mental health, vision, and benefits (With 95% of benefits paid for by company)
100% Coverage with Dental Benefits, Life Insurance, Long/Short Term Disability
100% 403B match after 1 year of employment (5%)
CLS pays Bar Dues and CLE Credits
Student loan reimbursement for Attorneys
Tuition Reimbursement
Ability to apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
Fantastic work-life balance
Various opportunities for upward mobility into leadership/more advanced roles
Pet Insurance
Wellness Committee dedicated to employee morale, with events such as company wide retreats, activities, and challenges!