Legal Aid of NC Seeks Poverty Law Attorney for Senior Law Project in Asheville
Position Announcement
*Legal Aid of North Carolina is an equal opportunity employer.*
People of color, women, senior citizens, LGBTQ people, and the persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Position: Staff Attorney – Senior Law Project, ASHEVILLE (FULL TIME)
Background:
Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC) is seeking a Staff Attorney to join its statewide Senior Law Project (SLP), which provides free legal assistance in civil matters to low-income people over age 60 across North Carolina. LANC is a statewide, nonprofit law firm that provides free legal services in civil matters generally to those households whose income falls below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines.
Responsibilities & Duties:
The SLP Staff Attorney will be responsible for direct service to older clients in a multi-county region surrounding Asheville. The SLP Attorney will handle a variety of cases including elder abuse, financial exploitation, housing and consumer issues, public benefits, and advance care planning. Duties will include: 1. Providing free legal advice and representation for elderly clients facing homelessness; assisting victims of abuse and exploitation including cases to protect victims from physical abuse; preparing documents and revoking powers of attorney to prevent ongoing financial exploitation; representing seniors on obtaining and preserving essential government benefits; 2. Working closely with aging services providers and other partners by participating in coordinated community activities, presenting local community legal education programs in the multi-county region, and working with local and statewide elder abuse task forces; 3. Establishing a regular local presence in the multi-county region through site visits at senior centers to conduct educational programs and meet with clients in their home county. This position will require frequent litigation.
The SLP attorney is expected to follow LANC policies for case acceptance and existing protocols for opening and closing files, and to keep accurate records of his or her work. The SLP attorney must be willing to travel to selected senior sites in the region to provide in-person assistance to clients. The selected candidate will also provide outreach and legal education at statewide events and perform other responsibilities that might be assigned.
Qualifications:
NC State Bar license and demonstrated commitment to legal advocacy for the poor or other areas of social justice. We are looking for highly organized and zealous advocates who will be sensitive to the needs and cultures of low-wealth households. Litigation experience is strongly preferred. A commitment to work in a collaborative and team-oriented environment and an appreciation for diversity is essential. We are especially interested in applicants who enjoy extensive client contact and can efficiently, but patiently, explain the law in a friendly, non-condescending manner. Proficiency in Spanish a plus. Entry level and experienced applicants will be considered for this position. Travel is required.
Salary:
$45,000+ DOE. Excellent leave and benefits package.
Application Deadline:
Open until filled. Initial review of applications is July 19, 2021.
Email résumé, cover letter, and names/contact information of three references to:
Meredith Gregory, Esq., Managing Attorney, Senior Law Project, MeredithG@legalaidnc.org.
Contact:
828-239-2986
meredithg@legalaidnc.org
