Staff Attorney Housing (Hybrid)
About The Position
The Housing Staff Attorney works as a member of the housing team to serve and represent low-income tenants facing eviction in Orange County. This full-time exempt position is based in the Santa Ana office and reports to the Supervising Attorney. The role includes maintaining a caseload of unlawful detainer matters; advising tenants on landlord-tenant issues; participating in community outreach, education, and policy advocacy; and supervising the legal work of paralegals, law students, interns, and volunteers. The attorney also collaborates with community-based organizations and CLA SoCal legal units to address client needs and systemic issues.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor degree.
- Active membership in good standing of the California Bar, or membership in another state bar and the ability to register as a legal services provider.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation, with the ability to travel regularly throughout the service area to support client representation and community engagement.
- Excellent written and verbal communication, advocacy, problem-solving, and computer skills.
- Strong work ethic and ability to manage multiple priorities, stay organized, and meet deadlines independently.
- Ability to identify legal issues and provide timely counsel and guidance.
- Strong client service, interpersonal, and trauma-informed communication skills, including working with diverse and indigent populations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and legal document preparation software.
- Reliable, detail-oriented team player with a collaborative mindset and commitment to continuous learning.
- Commitment to CLA SoCal’s values and mission.
Nice To Haves
- Familiarity with landlord-tenant law.
- Litigation experience, including propounding and responding to discovery, taking and defending depositions, and representing clients in trial.
- Bilingual proficiency.
Responsibilities
- Maintain a caseload representing tenants in unlawful detainer matters, including handling negotiations, settlements, and trials.
- Advise tenants on landlord-tenant issues.
- Participate in community groups and coalitions on issues impacting service-eligible populations.
- Conduct community outreach, including know-your-rights presentations.
- Maintain accurate case documentation and timekeeping in LegalServer.
- Interview clients and conduct case investigations, witness interviews, and legal research.
- Draft legal documents and support negotiations and settlement discussions.
- Work with community groups, conduct outreach, and provide community education presentations and materials.
- Engage in policy advocacy and coordinate and collaborate on policy campaigns with partner community-based organizations to improve systemic issues.
- Direct and supervise the legal work of paralegals, law students, interns, and volunteers.
- Identify wrap-around legal services and collaborate with CLA SoCal’s various legal units.
- Work with a multi-cultural perspective.
- Perform other duties as required to meet the needs of the organization.
Benefits
- May work as little as a 35-hour workweek.
- Hybrid schedule.
- 16 paid holidays plus PTO, including wellness days, starting Day 1.
- Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and long-term disability.
- 401(k) with employer contribution.
- Student loan reimbursement program.
- Bilingual bonus pay for qualified staff.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
