Program Attorney - Legal Service Department
About The Position
UMOS is seeking a motivated, results-oriented Program Attorney to provide trauma-informed legal counsel and representation to clients affected by domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and/or stalking. The attorney represents clients in family-law proceedings and petitions, including custody, divorce, protective orders, and restraining orders, and in affirmative immigration matters such as U visas and VAWA petitions. The role includes assessing clients’ legal needs, explaining their rights and options, conducting legal research, protecting attorney-client privilege, and staying current on relevant laws and developments. The attorney collaborates with community organizations and interdisciplinary professionals to coordinate client support, provides referrals to services such as counseling and housing assistance, and participates in community outreach and education. The position also involves consultation with the Vice President of Social Services and UMOS General Counsel, attendance at meetings and conferences, and other assigned projects and duties. The salary range is $67,969 to $88,272, depending on experience, with the opportunity to earn up to $3,000 in incentive pay during the first year. Employment is contingent on successful criminal-background and driver-license checks.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
- Active membership in the State Bar of Wisconsin and registration and authorization to appear before the U.S. Executive Office of Immigration Review, or willingness to obtain it.
- Willingness to focus on family law.
- Ability to travel and occasionally work irregular hours.
- Reliable transportation. If using a personal vehicle, maintain a valid driver’s license and adequate auto liability insurance.
Nice To Haves
- At least two years of family-law experience, with a strong preference for experience working with survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Spanish.
- Experience advocating for diverse clients, including victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking, limited-English speakers, and racial or ethnic minority groups.
- Experience using case database software.
Responsibilities
- Provide trauma-informed legal counsel and representation to clients affected by domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and/or stalking.
- Represent clients in court proceedings and petitions concerning custody, divorce, protective orders, restraining orders, and other legal remedies related to abuse.
- Represent clients in affirmative immigration matters, including U visas and VAWA petitions.
- Assess clients’ legal needs and educate them about their rights and legal options.
- Conduct legal research and analysis, and stay current on relevant laws, regulations, and legal developments.
- Maintain attorney-client privilege in handling client information and communications.
- Collaborate with law enforcement, social services agencies, community organizations, and interdisciplinary professionals to coordinate support for clients.
- Refer clients to additional support services, including counseling, housing assistance, and financial resources.
- Conduct community outreach and education about legal rights and resources for survivors.
- Consult with the Vice President of Social Services and UMOS General Counsel as needed, and communicate issues that arise.
- Attend meetings, conferences, and workshops, and perform special projects and other related duties as assigned.
- Uphold ethical standards and professional responsibilities in all interactions.
Benefits
- Paid time off that increases with years of service.
- 15 paid holidays annually.
- Insurance options covering health, dental, vision, life, short- and long-term disability, and accidental death and dismemberment.
- Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account options.
- Employee assistance program support services.
- Retirement plan options, including a 401(k) and Roth IRA; UMOS annually contributes at least 3% of eligible compensation for employees participating in the 401(k) Retirement Plan.
- Up to $3,000 in incentive pay during the first year of employment.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
