Staff Attorney I - Housing Services

Jump into meaningful legal work that keeps LA public housing communities thriving. As a Staff Attorney, you’ll handle a steady caseload of eviction matters, support housing teams with day-to-day legal guidance, and help make sure policies and practices stay on point with Fair Housing and tenant protection laws.

You’ll work closely with HACLA staff, investigators, and local partners to manage cases, solve problems in real time, and support residents and operations alike. It’s a hands-on role where you’ll build your litigation skills, sharpen your judgment, and make a direct impact across the City of LA.

If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, manage a busy caseload, and grow your career in public service law, this is your calling.

• Manages own caseload including commencing and completing unlawful detainers from receipt of case to resolution, including serving notices to vacate, filing and serving complaints, motions, responsive documents and appearance at trials and/or other hearings.

• Oversees outside counsel related to any unlawful detainer services they may be providing.

• Assists the Housing Services Department in initiating, developing, recommending, and implementing policies, procedures, and goals related to the unlawful detainer process, Fair Housing, Reasonable Accommodation, and Public Housing laws.

• Develops and maintains positive working relationship with HACLA staff, the Los Angeles Police Department, and other law enforcement agencies.

• Coordinates unlawful detainer activities with other Legal Department staff members, including fraud investigators, and trains management staff to ensure prompt and proper unlawful detainer actions.

• Prepares and presents reports on Department activities as requested.

• Advises and assists Housing Service Department staff in matters of Landlord Tenant, Fair Housing, Reasonable Accommodation and Public Housing Law.

• Provides legal opinions on unlawful detainer, fair housing, and public housing issues as required.

• Reviews all federal, state, and local laws and legal requirements relating to the unlawful detainer process and resident leases and recommends changes to ensure compliance.

• Assists in other legal matters, including legal research, and other matters affecting the Housing Authority including civil litigation as directed.

• Supervises legal support staff, including paralegals and legal assistants, as needed.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

Member in good standing of the California State bar. Must be licensed to practice law in California. Candidate must also possess:

• Strong legal research and writing skills.

• Ability to lead and multi-task.

• Manage a large volume of cases.

• Strong Interpersonal and communication skills.

• Ability to work with tenant advocacy groups and other third parties.

Desired Qualifications:

Trial experience, preferably in the areas of landlord/tenant (unlawful detainer) litigation, is desired.

License Required: Must be a member of the California Bar in good standing. Must also possess a valid California Class "C" Driver's License at time of appointment.