Position Title: Associate Attorney – Special Education Law

Salary Range: $115k to $155k (DOE)

Bilingual: English and Spanish (required)

Location : Inland Empire (IE), California/Hybrid Remote (Proof of Residence in IE is required)

The Law Offices of Sauda Johnson, PC, is a diverse and dynamic education law firm that focuses on advocating for pre-K through 12 (or through age 22 on certificated track) students with special needs. We are seeking a talented and driven California barred Associate Attorney to join our team. As an Associate Attorney, you will play a crucial role in advocating for and defending the legal educational rights of children with disabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Advocacy: Represent students with disabilities at Individualized Education Program (IEP)/504 meetings to ensure that our clients obtain critical tools necessary to access their educational curriculum.

2. Legal Representation: Attend IEP meetings to ensure legal compliance of applicable educational laws; defend students at manifestation determination, suspension, expulsion and Office of Administration hearings; attend mediations, and litigate matters in court to successfully obtain educational remedies. Provide legal advice to parents and guardians regarding their child’s legal educational rights.

3. Client Centered Services : Deliver top-notch customer service by promptly returning parent calls and emails; prioritize scheduling meetings with parents and guardians to address their questions and concerns in a timely manner; maintain clear and consistent communication to ensure they are up to date throughout their child’s matter; foster strong, trust-based relationships with parents by demonstrating empathy, patience, and a commitment to their child’s needs.

4. Case Management: Successfully manage a heavy caseload of special education matters while providing excellent customer service and maintaining detailed records and documentation for each case, including correspondence, meeting notes, and legal documents.

5. Technology Utilization: Experience using computers, tablets, and relevant legal management software and applications for case management, documentation, and communication.

6. Team Building and Collaboration: Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure best practices and quality legal services are delivered to clients; participate in team meetings, case reviews, and strategy sessions to share knowledge and develop comprehensive legal strategies; contribute to a supportive and positive team environment by offering assistance, sharing expertise, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement; must be coachable, flexible, open to working with others, and willing to learn new things. Demonstrate congeniality and the ability to work well with others.

7. Communication with Key Stakeholders: Engage with key stakeholders, including educators, district administrators, and school district attorneys to ensure collaborative and effective advocacy for students; develop amicable relationships with key stakeholders to facilitate cooperation and successful outcomes for students.

8. Professional Development: Stay abreast of developments in education law, attend continuing legal education (CLE) seminars and Special Education conferences and actively participate in professional organizations related to special education law.

Mandatory Qualifications :

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school and admission to the California State Bar.

2. Excellent legal research and writing skills.

3. Able to effectively analyze, communicate and draft legal documents involving complex legal concepts.

4. Demonstrated ability to efficiently work independently, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

5. Effectively communicate complex legal terms in Spanish and English.

6. Attend in-person meetings all over the Inland Empire (e.g. Ontario, Palm Springs, and Indio), work from home (must be willing to ride as a passenger with ride share companies) and attend in person conferences and retreats.

9. Proof of Residency on a Drivers License that reflects Inland Empire.

10. Proficiency in using Windows-based computers, tablets, and relevant software for case management, documentation, and communication.

11. Familiarity with legal research databases and tools (e.g., LexisNexis) on Windows platforms.

12. Experience with video conferencing platforms (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) for remote meetings and consultations on Windows systems.

13. Ability to efficiently use email, calendaring, and task management software (e.g., Microsoft Outlook) on Windows environments.

Preferred Qualifications :

1. At least 2-5 years of experience practicing law, with a focus on education law, special education law, or related areas.

2. At least 1 – 2 years of litigation experience. Experience representing clients in administrative hearings, mediations, and/or litigation related to education law matters is a bonus.

3. Working knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

4. Demonstrated commitment to social justice and advocating for vulnerable populations, particularly children with disabilities.

Benefits:

Competitive salary commensurate with experience ($115k to $155k per year)

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan options

Paid time off and holidays

Professional development opportunities

Application Process:

MUST submit all of the following: resume, cover letter, and a legal writing sample (preferably redacted a complaint) to officemanager@ssjlawfirm.com. Please write “Associate Attorney Application” in the subject line.

Law Offices of Sauda Johnson, PC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply, including new law school graduates who have passed the CA bar.

Deadline to Apply: June 21, 2024