Staff Attorney

CENTER FOR COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS•San Diego, CA

27d•$75,000 - $82,500•Onsite

About The Position

Provide holistic, comprehensive legal assistance and advocacy to victims of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), Sexual Assault (SA), and stalking as a member of CCS’ Legal Team. Deliver an array of legal services to victims in matters arising out of the abuse or violence through legal advice and counsel, preparing court forms and documents, court-based domestic violence restraining order clinics, hearing preparation, and direct representation in court and administrative hearings.

Requirements

Juris Doctor degree
Licensed California attorney in good standing
Completion of California State-approved Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Crisis Intervention Training required (or must complete upon hiring)
Adaptability and flexibility while working in a dynamic environment
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including conflict resolution skills
Must maintain personal cell phone for work-related purposes.
Ability to work in IPV, SA, and stalking fields.
The employee must be available during Agency working hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and must work 30 hours each week to maintain full-time status.
Must have reliable transportation available for work-related purposes, a valid California driver’s license, and proof of automobile insurance.

Nice To Haves

Oral and written fluency in English and Spanish highly preferred
Experience providing legal services to victims of IPV, SA, and stalking
Experience working with intervention strategies, legal system, and/or crisis counseling

Responsibilities

Complete holistic intakes, over the phone and in person, to determine eligibility for services and appropriate remedies
Provide holistic legal advice and counsel to victims of SA, IPV, and stalking in legal subject areas that may include safety (Civil Harassment and Domestic Violence Restraining Orders), family law, housing, employment, education, privacy, consumer finance, and victims’ rights in the criminal justice process
Assist self-represented litigants with navigating court processes, preparing court forms and documents, and hearing preparation
Provide support in operating the DVRO Clinic at the East County Courthouse
Assist self-represented clients with preparation and filing of court documents required to petition for a DVRO
Directly represent victims, on a case-by-case basis, in court and administrative hearings
Collaborate with immigration law organizations to help clients access immigration services
Provide crisis intervention; empowering, client-centered problem solving; education on choices and rights; develop safety plans and appropriate referrals to address holistic needs of clients
Advocate on behalf of victims within various systems to address legal, housing, financial literacy, health care, education, and public benefits needs
Actively participate in building and maintaining Legal Team cohesion and supportive collegial environment
Provide community outreach and training to service providers and other professionals, as needed
Maintain DV and SA Crisis Counselor status by completing initial and ongoing training, as required
Complete admin tasks, including timecard entries, reimbursement requests, and data entry, by agency deadlines
Keep CCS Outlook calendar updated with appointments and required information
Work as a team with all other CCS departments to provide comprehensive client services when needed
Participate in intra-agency cross-training and team collaboration efforts
Promote the safety and well-being of clients by modeling and encouraging healthy communication, safety-focused decision making, and acceptance of diversity
Maintain confidentiality and respectful communication at all times
Other duties as assigned