Staff Attorney

Who We Are

Legal Aid Society’s mission is to advance, defend, and enforce the legal rights of low-income and vulnerable people in order to secure for them the basic necessities of life. Our staff includes national authorities in the fields of domestic violence, housing, consumer law, federal income taxation, health advocacy, non-profit group representation, social security, and special education.

The Opportunity

The Health, Benefits, & Education Attorney provides legal representation to income-eligible clients in civil cases involving health care, nutrition, and education cases in our Clarksville, TN office. The position may also involve some representation of individuals and families with tax issues. As part of a holistic approach, representation will include administrative advocacy and representation is administrative hearings, litigation in state and federal courts, and community education presentations. This work will be done in accordance with LAS guidelines and priorities and the Rules of Professional Conduct. This position is funded in part by, and in collaboration with, multiple grants. Personnel must adhere to goals and outcomes detailed in the grant contracts. This position is funded for the duration of the grant and subsequent renewal may result in modification of job duties and responsibilities.

Responsibilities include:

• Provide high-quality legal representation to individuals in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct.
• Review and supervise the work of support staff members done on behalf of the attorney’s clients and clients assigned to support staff.
• Work with members of the private bar and the LAS Volunteer Lawyer Program to promote private bar involvement.
• Create and maintain positive working relationships with organizations in the service area and state that benefit the client population.
• Maintain accurate and orderly client files, adhering to case management database policies and guidelines.
• Participate in the firm’s community education program by being available to speak with community groups and agency staff, suggesting ideas for and helping to prepare and update community education materials.
• Participate in firm-wide practice groups.
• Comply with relevant portions of the Legal Services Corporation’s Performance Criteria and with the American Bar Association’s Standards for the Provision of Civil Legal Aid.

Benefits

Health, Dental, Vision Insurance coverage first day of employment, Life Insurance, Healthcare Savings Account, Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligible, 401k plan, Vacation/Sick/Holiday Leave, Hybrid Work Schedule Eligible.

• Juris Doctor (JD).
• Admitted to practice in Tennessee, eligible for admission through reciprocity, or willing to take first available bar examination.
• Excellent research, writing, and advocacy skills including the ability to advocate in a clear, and logical manner both orally and in writing.
• Basic proficiency in Windows and Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel software.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, including in client interviews and helping people in crisis.
• Prioritize work, plan and problem-solve, meet deadlines, and work well under pressure.
• Fluency in written and spoken Spanish or Arabic is a plus. Driver's license and reliable transportation.