Attorney – Self Help Tenant Hotline

Role Overview

• Respond to a high-volume legal information hotline by conducting client intakes, accurately coding services, and providing accurate legal information to callers
• Provide legal information and education to self-represented litigants, primarily in unlawful detainer and housing matters, through structured interviews and direct assistance in a fast-paced environment
• Review and assess self-prepared legal documents and pleadings submitted by self-represented litigants and provide appropriate legal information and guidance
• Supervise Self-Help staff and contribute to the overall work of the Self-Help Unit, including assisting with the provision of legal information in other civil legal matters as needed
• Provide legal analysis and conduct factual and legal research to support Self-Help paralegals, intake staff, and volunteers in delivering accurate legal information and education to litigants
• Interview litigants and communicate legal information effectively, ensuring clarity and professionalism
• Review and assess self-prepared legal documents, including pleadings, memoranda, correspondence, and related materials
• Supervise and direct the legal work of paralegals, law students, interns, and volunteers, and participate in community outreach and education as needed
• Work with a multicultural perspective
• Perform other duties as required to meet the needs of the organization

Requirements

• Juris Doctor degree and an active member in good standing of the California Bar or member to another state bar and ability to register as a legal services provider
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, active insurance policy and ability to travel frequently in and around the service area
• Required
• Bilingual Spanish proficiency
• Required
• Prior legal services advocacy experience – Preferred
• Gain knowledge of Landlord-Tenant law, including unlawful detainer notices, pleadings, answers, and motions
• Gain Knowledge of other areas of Civil Law, such as Family Law and Consumer Debt
• Strong legal research, writing skills, and experience with form preparation for Civil Cases from start to completion
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with strong problem-solving ability, creativity, and effective use of technology
• Strong work ethic and initiative, with the ability to organize time, manage multiple priorities, and meet critical deadlines with minimal supervision
• Ability to identify legal issues and provide real-time guidance to Self-Help staff, supported by strong interpersonal and client communication skills, including experience working with indigent clients
• Strong technical and organizational skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and keen attention to detail
• Demonstrated commitment to learning and knowledge-sharing, with an empathetic, collaborative, and energetic approach to teamwork
• Ability to effectively engage with a wide range client population utilizing client-centered lawyering and trauma-informed practices
• Commitment and ability to model CLA SoCal’s values and mission – Required

Benefits

• 16 paid holidays + PTO (including wellness days) starting Day 1
• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and long-term disability
• 401(k) with employer contribution
• Student loan reimbursement program
• Bilingual bonus pay for qualified staff