Staff Attorney, Domestic Violence/Family Law (DC/MD)

ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILE

Ayuda is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing direct legal, social and language access services, education, and outreach to low-income immigrants in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Since 1973, Ayuda has provided critical services on a wide range of issues, in the process acquiring nationally recognized expertise in several fields including immigration law, language access, domestic violence and human trafficking. Ayuda has office locations in Washington, DC, Silver Spring, MD and Fairfax, VA.

WHY DO YOU WANT THIS JOB?

Because, just like everyone at Ayuda, you believe:

• In seeing communities where all immigrants succeed and thrive in the United States.
• In the overall success of our organization and all our programs.
• That families should be healthy and safe from harm.
• That all people should have access to professional, honest, and ethical services, regardless of ability to pay or status in this country.
• That diversity and equality make this country better.

WHAT WILL THIS JOB ENTAIL?

This position can be based out of our Washington, DC or Silver Spring, MD offices, and will require travel to local state courts.

• Provide legal representation and advice to low-income immigrant survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking in civil protection orders and family law cases (child custody, child support and divorce) in DC Superior Court and Maryland District and Circuit Courts;
• Advocate on behalf of clients in related criminal matters;
• Stay current on relevant laws and policies by attending trainings and conferences and reviewing new laws, regulations and court rules;
• Train area service providers and government agencies, including law enforcement;
• Represent Ayuda at local coalition meetings and participate in local and national advocacy initiatives;
• Conduct outreach presentations to potential clients and partner agencies;
• Collaborate with Ayuda’s Social Services staff to ensure the provision of holistic services;
• Assist with recruitment, training, and supervision of legal interns, paralegals and legal assistants;
• Assist with preparation of grant applications and reports; and
• Other duties as assigned

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU CAN DO THIS JOB?

Eligibility:

• Must be legally able to work in the United States and maintain proper work authorization throughout employment.
• Must be able to meet the physical requirements of the position presented in a general office environment.

Qualifications:

The following qualifications are the qualities, experiences, and skills we seek in a candidate.

Candidates who don't feel that they meet every single qualification, but who still believe they’d be the right fit for this role, are encouraged to consider applying! We're eager to meet people that believe in our mission and can contribute to our team in a variety of ways -- not just candidates who check all the boxes.

Education/Experience:

• J.D. or LL.M. from accredited law school;
• Bar license requirements:
• Licensed to practice law any state, district or territory of the United States is preferred.
• Individuals licensed to practice in D.C. or Maryland are strongly preferred (eligibility to waive into the D.C. and/or Maryland bar immediately required).
• Applicants who are awaiting admission, bar results, or registered for the next available bar examination are still encouraged to apply.
• Legal experience in family law, experience working with immigrants, and/or experience working with survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault preferred.

Language Skills:

• Fluency in written and spoken English and Spanish highly preferred.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Demonstrated sensitivity to and knowledge of issues involved in working with diverse populations
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills; must be comfortable presenting in public and in oral arguments before the courts.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse multidisciplinary team, including in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work in collaboration with colleagues, external partners, and client communities.
• Strong work ethic, discrete, resourceful, and able to maintain confidentiality.
• Detail-oriented.
• Excellent time management and multi-tasking skills.
• Ability to meet assigned and self-imposed deadlines.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Proven problem-solving skills with ability to analyze situations, identify existing or potential problems, and recommend solutions.
• Decisive, with ability to exercise independent judgment.
• Ability to understand legal ethical obligations and understand when and how to seek appropriate supervision.

Technological Skills:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and able to devote interest and attention to learning other new software programs and web-based applications, including Ayuda’s electronic case-management system LegalServer; experience with LegalServer strongly preferred.

We are proud of the benefits we can offer that include:

• Platinum-level medical insurance plan 100% employer-paid
• Dental and vision insurance 100% employer paid
• Long-term disability insurance 100% employer paid
• Life and AD&D insurance 100% employer paid
• Pre-tax 401(k) with Employer match on first 3% of salary
• Vacation Days: 21 days per year until year 3, 27 per year in years 3-7 and 33 days per year after 7 years employment. Employees begin with 3 days of vacation leave.
• New employees begin with 5 days of Health & Wellness (sick) leave and accrue an additional 5 hours per pay period plus emergency medical leave up to 12 weeks per year
• 12 weeks paid parental leave/family leave
• 24 days paid holidays and staff wellness days, including Winter Break the last week of the year
• Job-related professional development fees (including annual state bar dues and professional memberships)
• Flexible work schedules

This position is exempt for overtime purposes.

Employees with federal student loan debt may be eligible to apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the Department of Education. For more information, go to https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service.