Part-Time Staff Attorney (Child Advocacy Department)

Part-Time Staff Attorney (Child Advocacy Department)

Company: Northern Nevada Legal Aid (NNLA)
Location: Reno, NV
Position: Part-Time (20–25 hours per week)

Why Join Our Team?

Are you passionate about advocating for children in need of legal assistance and seeking a meaningful part-time opportunity that allows you to balance personal and professional commitments? Northern Nevada Legal Aid is looking for an experienced and compassionate attorney to join our Child Advocacy team. This role is perfect for someone who is dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of children, while committing to a flexible part-time schedule. If you love working with children and want to be part of an organization that makes a significant impact, NNLA offers an ideal environment for your skills and passion.

About Us:

Northern Nevada Legal Aid (NNLA), formerly Washoe Legal Services, has been serving vulnerable populations in Northern Nevada since 1965. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on advocating for individuals who face legal challenges related to domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, immigration, and more. Our Child Advocacy Department specifically represents children in dependency cases, fighting for their rights and ensuring their voices are heard in the legal system. Join us in our mission to create lasting change in the lives of those who need it most.

Salary and Benefits:

• Salary Range: $34,580 – $36,400 (DOE), for 20–25 hours per week
• Paid Time Off (PTO):
• Part-time employees accrue 1.75 hours of PTO every pay period.
• Part-time employees may accrue a maximum of 45 hours of PTO. Once this limit is reached, PTO accrual will pause until the balance falls below 45 hours.
• Work Schedule: Part-time, 20-25 hours per week with flexibility

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Client Representation: Provide legal representation for children in dependency cases. Establish and maintain a trusting, confidential relationship with child clients, offering support throughout their legal proceedings via in-person visits and regular communication.
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with caseworkers, therapists, teachers, foster parents, and other professionals to ensure children receive the support needed to resolve their cases efficiently and achieve a sense of stability.
• Court and Legal Proceedings: Represent child clients in court hearings, filing legal documents such as petitions, motions, and appeals. Ensure timely and fair hearings for the children you represent.
• Crisis Intervention: Respond to urgent situations, offering immediate legal counsel and assistance to protect children’s rights.
• Mediation and Negotiation: Engage in mediation and settlement discussions to ensure the child’s best interests are prioritized.
• Community Engagement and Advocacy: Attend community outreach events and collaborate with local partners to advocate for the rights and welfare of children.
• Documentation and Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and detailed case files, documenting all interactions and decisions, ensuring compliance with legal standards.

Qualifications:

• Bar Admission: Must be a member of the Nevada Bar, or possess an active, good-standing bar license in any U.S. jurisdiction (eligible for Nevada practice under SCR 49.1), or have recently taken the Nevada bar exam and are awaiting results.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain legal concepts to children in an age-appropriate and empathetic manner.
• Interpersonal Skills: Must have a genuine passion for working with children and the ability to build trust with clients of all ages. Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Empathy and Attitude: You should be an empathetic and patient communicator, motivated by a genuine desire to advocate for children in challenging situations.
• Case Management: Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple cases while maintaining high standards of client service.
• Experience: Experience working with children, especially those who have been impacted by trauma or in foster care, is a plus (preferred but not required). Experience in legal aid or public interest law is also an asset.
• Commitment to Long-Term Work: We are seeking an attorney committed to long-term involvement with NNLA’s Child Advocacy Department. This position offers the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with both clients and colleagues.
• Initiative and Independence: Ability to work autonomously, while also being part of a supportive and collaborative team.

Location:

• This position is Hybrid with some on-site requirements at NNLA’s main office (299 S. Arlington Ave, Reno), conveniently located between the Downtown and Midtown districts. Regular in-person interaction with clients (children) in the community is a key part of this role.

How to Apply:

To apply, please email a cover letter and resume to Career@nnlegalaid.org. No telephone calls please. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Diversity Statement:

NNLA is an ADA/Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing access to justice for all and encourage candidates of diverse backgrounds to apply.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $34,580.00 - $36,400.00 per year

Expected hours: 20 – 25 per week

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Reno, NV 89501

Salary : $34,580 - $36,400