Housing Attorney
Housing Staff Attorney
Santa Barbara, CA
HOURS: Full-time (37.5 hrs) Exempt
https://lafsbc.org/contact-us/employment-volunteer/
OVERVIEW: The Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County seeks an enthusiastic and compassionate individual who will thrive serving low-income clients in a non-profit law firm. The Housing Staff Attorney will work as part of a team of two other housing attorneys to advise and represent low-income and senior tenants regarding eviction defense (unlawful detainers), landlord-tenant matters, fair housing, and more. This is a full-time exempt position.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following range of duties: conducting client interviews, providing advice and counsel, representing clients at all stages of unlawful detainer litigation – including but limited to law and motion, settlement conference, trials, post-trial relief; updating and inputting information into case management system; working collaboratively with support staff; providing education and outreach efforts directed at community members and service providers; grant reporting, evaluation, and monitoring; and other duties as assigned.
LOCATION: Santa Barbara, CA (serving southern Santa Barbara County)
WORK CONDITIONS: Hybrid work schedule with a combination of work from home, the courthouse, and the office. New employees may be required to be in person during the probationary period. The position requires working with individuals during moments of stress and instability.
QUALIFICATIONS: • Active license to practice in the State of California (and in good standing). • Juris Doctor degree or the equivalent combination of work and educational experience. • Strong personal work ethic, initiative, and ability to organize time, manage diverse activities, and meet critical deadlines. • Ability to spot legal issues and provide real-time counsel & advice. • Strong interpersonal skill, client communication skills, and comfort working with indigent clients. • Articulate, creative, and passionate advocate with excellent written and oral communication skills, and problem-solving skills. • Strong technical skills; including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and document preparation software. • Great organizational skills with attention to detail. • Proven interest in social justice issues. • Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, active insurance policy or other ability to travel frequently in and around the service area for representation and to engage with clients and community partners.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Language: Bilingual in English and Spanish helpful but not required; Experience working with a civil legal aid organization or non-profit organization; Experience in unlawful detainers or other landlord-tenant matters; Experience working with support staff; Experience working with low-income communities.
SALARY & BENEFITS: Salary range of $93,150 to $125,276 depending on experience. Generous personal leave and benefits package, including paid vacation, sick leave, all court holidays, health/dental/vision insurance (100% of premiums covered for employee), life insurance with Employee Assistance Program, and option to participate in 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution to a SEP-IRA after one year. Employer covers State Bar fees and one local bar association membership.
APPLICATION PROCESS: Immediate opening. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Please submit 1) resume and 2) a list of references to personnel@lafsbc.org.