Staff Attorney

The Collateral Consequences of Conviction Justice Project

The dire consequences of a felony conviction last far longer than the years spent in prison and time spent under post-release supervision. In addition to those direct punishments, returning residents are often denied licenses for many jobs, separated from their families, denied driver’s licenses, and denied housing. In response to the pervasive, negative and stifling impact these collateral consequences of conviction have on formerly incarcerated community members, the Collateral Consequences of Conviction Justice Project (CCCJP) provides free legal representation to individuals with past criminal justice involvement, with the goal of facilitating successful reintegration into society.

Position Summary

The Staff Attorney will work under the supervision of the Collateral Consequences of Conviction Justice Project (“CCCJP”) Clinic Director to expand community outreach and representation of clients in re-entry legal matters, support the training of clinic students, and comply with grant data tracking and reporting requirements.

Primary Responsibilities

1. Conduct in person and telephonic intake and counseling interviews with prospective clients.
2. Under the supervision of the Clinic Director, provide re-entry legal services to clients in matters where client may be eligible for potential relief to assist in clearing criminal records and other re-entry legal issues presenting barriers to employment, housing, education or other benefits.
3. Conduct expungement workshops and trainings hosted by community partners to assist eligible clients and service providers to understand the process of petitioning to dismiss criminal charges and assist attendees in preparing petitions for dismissal.
4. Partner with the CCCJP Clinic Director to supervise clinic students’ work representing clients and to build and foster relationships with the community.
5. Collect quantitative and qualitative data relating to client services and community outreach conducted by the CCCJP, and otherwise support program evaluation and grant reporting as requested.
6. Some evening and weekend hours will be required.
7. Other related duties as assigned.

Loyola Marymount University Expectations

Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the university. Promote an environment that supports diversity and inclusivity. Communicate and employ interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct. Demonstrate a commitment to outstanding customer service.

Qualifications/Experience

• A Juris Doctor degree.
• Licensed to practice law in the state of California
• One year of experience. Experience working with formerly incarcerated individuals is a plus.
• Excellent written and oral communication abilities and legal research skills.
• Must be able to work with a diverse group of constituencies from different culture, geographic and economic backgrounds, including individuals with criminal history and history of severe trauma.
• Knowledge of and experience with California law relating to expungement of criminal records and other re-entry legal services a plus.
• Spanish language fluency is a plus
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, work independently, and seek guidance when appropriate.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel throughout Los Angeles County.