Lawyer

Volunteer Corperate/HR Lawyer Needed

Position Title: Volunteer Corperate/HR Lawyer

Organization: Focus on Communities United for Success (FOCUS)

Location: Remote; Preference for Maryland, DC, or Northern Virginia area with a strong understanding of Maryland employment law

Commitment: Flexible, approximately 10–15 hours per month for a minimum of 6 months

Reports To: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

About Us

Focus on Communities United for Success (FOCUS) is a mission-driven organization dedicated to transforming lives through IT workforce development, training, and job placement. Our innovative approach equips underserved communities with the skills and resources needed to build generational wealth and create lasting economic impact.

Role Summary

We are seeking a Volunteer HR Lawyer with expertise in Maryland employment law to provide legal support in structuring and managing FOCUS’s HR policies, contracts, and compliance efforts. The ideal candidate will ensure our HR practices align with legal requirements, nonprofit best practices, and our mission to foster equity and opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

HR Policy Review and Development

• Review and update FOCUS’s HR policies and employee handbooks, ensuring compliance with Maryland employment law and federal regulations.
• Draft legally sound policies on issues such as workplace conduct, equal opportunity, and diversity.
• Enforce employee and student-partnership policies

Compliance and Risk Management

• Provide guidance on compliance with Maryland and federal employment laws, including labor standards, anti-discrimination laws, and wage and hour requirements.
• Advise on employee relations issues and assist in mitigating potential legal risks.

Contracts and Agreements

• Draft, review, and revise employment contracts, consultant agreements, and volunteer agreements.
• Ensure contracts are legally compliant and protect the organization’s interests.

Training and Guidance

• Offer training for leadership and HR staff on Maryland-specific employment law and legal considerations for nonprofits.
• Act as a resource for legal questions related to employee relations and HR compliance.

Support on Special Projects

• Assist with legal matters related to HR initiatives, such as diversity and inclusion programs, performance management, and talent acquisition.
• Provide advice on legal considerations for expanding FOCUS to new locations, with emphasis on Maryland compliance.

Qualifications

• Education: Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years practicing employment or labor law, with specific experience in Maryland employment law. Nonprofit experience preferred.
• Skills:
• Strong understanding of Maryland employment laws and nonprofit HR compliance.
• Excellent legal drafting, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to provide practical and strategic legal advice in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
• Licensing: Licensed to practice law in Maryland; additional licensing in DC or Virginia is a plus.

Benefits

• Contribute to a transformative, mission-driven organization dedicated to building stronger communities.
• Gain experience in the nonprofit sector.
• Flexible schedule with remote work options.
• Recognition on FOCUS’s website and in annual reports.

How to Apply

Please email your resume and a brief cover letter detailing your interest and relevant experience to Hr@focusorg.org with the subject line: Volunteer HR Lawyer Application.