CCLS Staff Attorney - Consumer/Senior/Public Benefits (Merced)

Reports to 

Supervising Attorney

FLSA Status
Full-Time, Exempt (Union position)

Application Deadline  

Until Filled

Salary 

 $71,194 to $110,565 per year

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Central California Legal Services (CCLS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was founded in 1966 for the purpose of providing free civil legal services to low-income individuals. CCLS core counties include Fresno, Kings, Mariposa, Merced, Tulare, and Tuolumne. CCLS’s health work also extends to San Luis Obispo, Monterey, San Benito, and Stanislaus counties. In Madera County, CCLS provides limited services to seniors and on health issues. CCLS has offices in Fresno, Merced, and Visalia, and satellite offices in Mendota and Los Banos. With nearly one hundred (100) employees, CCLS’s work includes direct services that meet our clients’ immediate needs, education, and advocacy.

JOB DESCRIPTION

CCLS has an exciting position for an energetic Staff Attorney to serve on its Consumer, Senior, Public Benefits Team. The Staff Attorney will provide legal representation to eligible seniors and dependent adults on a wide variety of issues impacting CCLS’ client population. The Staff Attorney will also engage in outreach and education events and build relationships with community members, agencies, and other community-based organizations. 

CCLS is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, other non-merit factor or any categories protected by law. We encourage all interested individuals to apply. CCLS is subject to a Collective Bargaining Agreement.

DUTIES

• Represent senior and consumer clients in estate planning, public benefits, and consumer matters, including direct services, administrative hearings, and affirmative litigation;
• Initiate litigation to prevent and remedy unlawful acts against seniors and consumers;
• Work with the team to accomplish the grant-related project goals, maintain accurate records, and provide monthly written reports;
• Participate in organizing, conducting, and attending community outreach events and legal workshops/clinics across the Central Valley;
• Maintain ongoing relationships with CCLS attorneys, pro bono attorneys and volunteers, support centers, and community-based partners and service providers;
• Assist with provision of in-person, legal services at the CCLS Los Banos satellite office; 
• Attend national or regional trainings as deemed necessary and/or helpful to CCLS, and provide training on lessons learned to other CCLS staff;
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Active member in good standing of the State Bar of California; 
• Minimum 3 years of experience as a practicing attorney;
• Civil litigation experience strongly preferred;
• Collaborative, team-oriented individual able to work with colleagues and external partners;
• Ability to assume responsibility quickly, comfortable under pressure, and able to work independently and as part of a team; 
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills; 
• Have an organized, detailed approach;
• Ability to work with a wide range of clients in a kind, appropriate, client-centered manner;
• Bilingual ability strongly preferred;
• Commitment to CCLS’ mission and core values;  
• Ability to travel as needed, proof of liability and property insurance on vehicle used.