Staff Attorney

Minnesota Disability Law Center Staff Attorney

Position Type: Regular Full-Time Exempt

Location: Minneapolis, MN 55403

Introduction:

Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid (MMLA) is seeking a dedicated attorney to join our youth services team. If you’re ready to contribute your skills and compassion to meaningful work, we invite you to explore this exciting opportunity. The Minnesota Disability Law Center (MDLC) serves as the protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities in Minnesota.

What’s in it for you?

· We believe in work-life harmony. This role offers the flexibility to blend remote work with in-office collaboration.

· On Fridays, the office closes at noon and employees enjoy a half-day of paid flex time.

· MMLA provides on-the-job training and mentorship, with opportunities for growth within the organization.

Why MMLA?

· We’re not just ticking boxes. We’re genuinely committed to diversity. Bring your unique identity, experiences, and perspectives—we want them all!

· Our mission? Equal justice for all. In your cover letter, tell us how your background can amplify this cause. Let’s change our lives together.

· Discrimination and harassment have no place here. We’re building a respectful, supportive workplace where everyone thrives.

Primary Responsibilities:

· Provide special education legal services through legal advocacy, negotiation, mediation, litigation, and handling of administrative and court proceedings

· Litigate special education cases from intake to appeal

· Interview clients, review records, conduct legal research, and represent clients in administrative hearings and state and federal judicial proceedings.

· Provide technical legal support to other individuals or groups

· Conduct trainings, outreach, and community education

· Cultivate and maintain relationships with relevant partners, including advocacy organizations, client communities, and agencies

· Monitor facilities across the state that serve people with disabilities

· Apply the principles of MDLC’s vision and Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid’s Racial Justice Values Statement in all interactions

· Coordinate with external partners such as Vocational Rehabilitation Services, State Services for the Blind, and Independent Living Centers to provide comprehensive support to clients.

· Perform other duties as assigned

· Utilize Legal Server software to track case progress and ensure compliance with organizational policies and procedures.

· Conduct thorough legal research using both traditional resources and MMLA databases.

· Prepare detailed legal documents, briefs, and reports in accordance with organizational standards and procedures.

· Develop and maintain strong working relationships with internal stakeholders, including other legal teams, administrative staff, and management.

· Ensure all activities comply with Mid-Minnesota Legal Assistance's policies and procedures, including confidentiality and ethical guidelines.

· Stay updated on changes in organizational policies and legal regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.

· Promote and embody the organization's culture of justice, inclusion, and diversity in all interactions.

· Leverage the supportive and collaborative work environment to achieve the organization's goals and enhance client outcomes.

· Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities to stay current with legal trends and organizational best practices.

· Mentor and support junior staff and interns, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Required Qualifications:

· Proficiency in Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

· Dedication to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles.

· Three or more years of legal experience.

· One to five years of disability rights or discrimination-related litigation experience

· Experience representing clients on special education law issues (IDEA, 504, etc.)

· Attorney applicants must be currently licensed in Minnesota.

· Attorneys admitted in states other than Minnesota can get temporary pre-exam admission

· Demonstrated legal skills

· Effective litigation outcomes

· Proven record of effective case handling and outcomes

· Ability to work collaboratively in a team

· Access to reliable transportation as statewide travel is required

Preferred Qualifications:

· Second language ability, particularly Spanish, ASL, or Somali, is a plus

· Diverse economic, social, or cultural experiences are a plus

Compensation Information:

· $84,822 to $100,487, depending on experience, plus benefits. Benefits include family medical and dental insurance, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, 403(b) with employer match, FSA, employee assistance programs, and generous paid time off.

Application Submission:

· Interested candidates should submit their resume, references, and cover letters at https://mylegalaid.org/employment.

If you require a reasonable accommodation for completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in our employee selection process, please contact Megan Cook at mcook@mylegalaid.org. Please direct all other inquiries to hiring@mylegalaid.org.

Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. This position is subject to collective bargaining agreements.