Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy - Housing Justice Program Director

Full-Time | Hybrid Work Schedule
Location: Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy
Website: https://www.charlottelegaladvocacy.org

Position Overview

The Housing Justice Program Director will lead the revival and expansion of the Advocacy Center's housing eviction diversion program serving unrepresented populations. This role is grounded in two core pillars:

1. Direct Legal Representation
2. Systemic Advocacy

The Program Director will maintain a regular presence in eviction court to provide immediate legal assistance to tenants appearing for summary ejectment proceedings. Responsibilities include:

• Defending evictions
• Providing legal information and advice to tenants
• Negotiating with landlords and their counsel
• Asserting counterclaims when appropriate

Additional duties include initiating affirmative litigation (illegal evictions, systemic unlawful fees), handling limited appellate cases, and collaborating with community partners and policymakers to advance systemic reforms.

Key Responsibilities Program Leadership and Strategy

• Develop and implement a strategic plan to revive the eviction diversion program
• Monitor legal trends and report significant developments

Direct Legal Representation

• Represent tenants in eviction proceedings
• Provide legal advice and negotiate settlements
• Serve as co-counsel in selected cases and appeals

Systemic and Impact Litigation

• Identify and develop systemic litigation opportunities
• Initiate affirmative cases addressing illegal practices
• Engage in appellate advocacy

Staff Development

• Mentor legal staff and provide technical assistance
• Develop training programs for high-quality legal services

Collaboration and Outreach

• Work with community partners and policymakers
• Represent the organization in external meetings and coalitions

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) and active NC State Bar membership (or ability to obtain promptly)
• 5-7 years of litigation experience, including trial and appellate work
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills
• Ability to manage complex caseloads and work independently
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite

Preferred Experience

• Housing law or eviction defense
• Systemic or impact litigation
• Appellate advocacy beyond routine appeals
• Leadership or mentoring experience

Skills and Competencies

• Exceptional litigation judgment and advocacy skills
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Passion for serving low-income clients and advancing social justice

Work Schedule & Compensation

• Hybrid schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
• Full-time, salary-exempt position; salary commensurate with experience

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Generous leave: 22 paid days + 12 holidays
• Professional liability coverage
• Parental leave, life insurance, disability insurance
• Bar dues and CLE opportunities

Application Process

Send a resume and detailed cover letter to jrobinson@ascendnps.org. Include:

• Interest and qualifications for the role
• Experience with low-income individuals and trauma survivors
• Names and contact info for three references (one must be a supervisor)

Salary

• $76,408 - $114,611/year