Staff Attorney

AARP • Washington, DC

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

AARP’s Legal Counsel for the Elderly champions the dignity and rights of vulnerable Washington, D.C. seniors 60-plus, providing free legal and social work services to those in need — empowering, defending, protecting, and helping thousands of clients each year in many areas of civil law.
The Staff Attorney provides legal counsel and/or represents clients in civil litigation and other legal proceedings. Prepares cases and participates in trial preparation, preparation of amicus or other briefs, discovery, negotiations, and mediations. Engages in systemic advocacy relating to areas of expertise. Conducts community outreach and education. Supports and counsels clients in representing themselves.

Requirements

• Completion of a Juris Doctorate degree.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in probate estate administration, estate planning, and heirs property.
• Willingness and ability to network and build partnerships with DC government agencies.
• Ability to work with empathy and patience, while being sensitive to the legal and social needs of the low-income elder population in the District of Columbia.
• DC Bar or eligible to waive into DC.
• Regular and reliable job attendance.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships.
• Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions.
• In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise.
• AARP will not sponsor an employment visa for this position at this time.

Responsibilities

• Provides timely and accurate information, legal advice, representation in litigation or non-litigation matters, referral, self-help materials, guidance, and/or other assistance to eligible clients within and related to the attorney’s practice area.
• Engages in or supports systemic advocacy related to the attorney’s area of expertise.
• Conducts community outreach, education, and training events.
• Provides guidance, refers cases, and monitors work of pro bono attorneys, volunteers, law students, and legal support staff on assigned cases.
• Develops and maintains expertise in primary areas of responsibility.
• Collaborates with other legal services advocates, clients, and community leaders on systemic issues.
• Participates as a member of practice area teams and on cross-organizational working groups to develop innovative approaches to enhance service delivery for organization clients.

Benefits

• AARP offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including a 401(k); 100% company-funded pension plan; health, dental, and vision plans; life insurance; paid time off to include company and individual holidays, vacation, sick, caregiving, and parental leave; performance-based and peer-based recognition and tuition reimbursement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree