Staff Attorney - Native American Program

Description

Position Overview:

The Staff Attorney-Native American Program provides direct legal assistance to Native Americans in Nebraska.

Essential Functions

· Handles a case load: evaluates potential cases to determine acceptance and extent of representation; identifies and gathers other information to assist in determining case acceptance; formulates legal opinions and recommendations based on investigation, interviews and legal research; represents clients in all aspects of their cases, including, but not limited to, preparation of pleadings, research, discovery, negotiations, settlement, litigation and appeal, if appropriate and approved; educates clients regarding their legal options and the consequences of each, as well as processes and procedures involved in representing the clients' interests. Case load to include, but not limited to, litigation in tribal and state courts, and with a focus on the legal problems and needs of low-income Native Americans in Nebraska.

· Assists in community outreach efforts.

· Assists in community education and professional training in issues related to the legal problems and needs of low-income Native Americans in Nebraska.

· Assists in developing materials providing information about the legal problems and needs of low-income Native Americans in Nebraska.

· Maintains knowledge of the current developments in the various substantive areas of law affecting NAP clients and the client community.

· Correctly applies and complies with LAN policies, procedures and mission statement and assists in implementing firm goals.

· Complies with LSC Regulations and all other rules pertaining to funder requirements.

· Complies with all applicable state and tribal rules of professional conduct.

· Complying with all applicable laws, rules, policies, procedures and regulations

Keeps accurate record keeping pertaining to cases and other activities the Staff Attorney is involved in.

· Maintains professional and constructive relationships with NAP staff, other LAN staff, and community partners.

· Continuing the development of professional expertise and abilities.

· Attending firm orientations, training and meetings.

· Attending seminars and conferences when requested.

· Comporting his/her self in a professional manner.

· Serving on firm committees upon request.

· Performs such other duties as are assigned by Managing Attorney or management.

Requirements

Education and Experience

· Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.

· Licensed to practice law in the courts of the Omaha, Ponca, and Winnebago Tribes and of the Santee Sioux Nation (or willingness and ability to imminently become so licensed) 

· Licensed to practice law in the State of Nebraska (or willingness and ability to imminently become so licensed).

· Experience/Expertise in domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking.

· Experience in poverty law, with a legal aid program, or serving the client community in a way related to legal services.

· Ability to travel throughout Nebraska.

Preferred Experience

· Connection to Native American issues.

· Experience/Expertise in tribal court practice.

· Experience/Expertise in federal Indian law.

· Experience/Expertise in the Indian Child Welfare Act

· Present ability (or willingness to develop) to manage a typical legal aid caseload involving significant litigation.

· A member of the client community.

· A commitment to provide legal services to low-income Native Americans in Nebraska.

· Awareness of the legal problems and needs of low-income Native Americans in Nebraska.

· Ability to communicate effectively with persons in the client community.

· Ability to work effectively with other members of the firm.

· Willingness to participate in the local bar and community.