CCLS Staff Attorney - Family Law

Reports to
Directing Attorney

FLSA Status

Full-Time, Exempt (Union position)

Application Deadline

Until Filled

Salary

$71,194 to $115,537

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

For over 50 years, CCLS has represented and advocated for low-income individuals in the Central Valley. With more than 90 employees, our mission is to provide high quality, no-cost civil legal services to low-income individuals, families, and communities—improving the wellbeing of our Valley through systems-changing advocacy, client education, and legal work that meets individual clients’ immediate needs. We also work closely with agencies and community organizations that share our commitment to support our clients in being their own agents of change.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Family Law Staff Attorney will join a dynamic team that combines family law and immigration services to CCLS clients. The Staff Attorney will focus on representation of domestic violence survivors in an effort to provide guidance, legal support and safety. These services will include explanation of related processes and assistance in obtaining restraining orders, child custody orders, child and spousal support orders, and divorces against abusers.  CCLS Headquarters are based in Fresno, CA, but this position can be assigned to any of the three CCLS offices (Fresno, Merced, or Visalia). 

DUTIES

• Advise and represent survivors of domestic violence in related civil proceedings;
• Provide legal representation to clients consistent with CCLS program priorities;
• Identify and analyze systemic issues through individual casework, reviews of the CCLS data, and participation in statewide networks of legal services advocates;
• Co-Counsel with other legal staff and pro bono partners;
• Collaborate with other legal staff, client groups, community-based service providers, and statewide networks;
• Participate in community outreach and education events;
• 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 2 years of legal experience;
• Excellent litigation and negotiation skills;
• 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;
• Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills;
• Have an organized, detailed approach;
• Able to use good judgment, multitask, and meet short-notice deadlines;
• 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;
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion;
• Ability to travel as needed, proof of liability and property insurance on vehicle used.