Position Title:  Family Law Staff Attorney (3 positions available)

Department:  Family Law Unit

Employment Status:  Full-time

Location:  One position must be located in either the Jackson or Selmer office, the other two positions will be located in the Memphis office

Supervisor:  Family Law Unit Managing Attorney

Supervises:  N/A

Prepared:  7/1/2024

Job Summary:

The Family Law Staff Attorney ensures the provision of high-quality legal services in family law matters to low-income clients in WTLS’ 21-county service area, focused on orders of protection, divorces, child custody, and adoptions for domestic violence or abuse/neglect victims. This position is funded by the Family-Centered Legal Solutions (FCLS) grant with Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services (TALS). The project’s focus is stabilizing the household by providing outreach, education, and holistic legal advocacy to low-income families with children. Grant positions are funded through the duration of the grant, and subsequent renewal could result in modification of job duties and responsibilities.  

Duties/Responsibilities:

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following tasks:

• Provide direct legal assistance to individuals and groups, including interviewing clients, researching, performing factual investigations, preparing pleadings and memoranda, negotiating case resolutions, and representing clients in court and administrative hearings.
• Provide counsel, advice, and other brief services when appropriate.
• Co-counsel with other attorneys and work with paralegals.
• Develop and implement litigation and/or advocacy strategies to address systemic legal problems.
• Participate on internal committees, work groups, and other efforts to promote and improve WTLS operations.
• Establish and maintain professional working relationships with office staff.
• Accurately record and update timekeeping entries in real-time, ensuring detailed and precise documentation of work hours, project time allocation, and task completion for reporting and payroll purposes.
• Comply with program policies and regulations of the Legal Services Corporation and other funders.
• Comply with relevant portions of the Legal Services Corporation’s Performance Criteria and the American Bar Association’s Standards for the Provision of Civil Legal Aid.
• Comply with all applicable organizational, professional, and legal requirements for confidentiality.
• Perform other duties and training as requested by supervisor.

Requirements:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the qualifications, knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job.    

• D. Degree. 
• Current licensure in good standing in Tennessee or eligible for reciprocity and willing to secure reciprocity. 
• Ability to conduct research and analysis of pertinent legal authority. 
• Ability to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions. 
• Effective communication skills sufficient to represent clients in legal hearings, meetings, negotiations, or administrative proceedings; to give public presentations, conduct trainings, and do client outreach; and to conduct community outreach. 
• Experience working with or sensitivity to individuals from ethnic or language distinct communities. 
• Sufficient computer skills to be able to maintain client records, prepare documents, maintain time records, etc. as required. 
• Ability to competently use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe Professional. 
• Ability to competently use company software packages. 

Success Factors:  

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principle of equal justice and to advocacy for low-income persons by actively participating in initiatives and projects that promote access to legal services for low-income individuals, advocating for their rights, and ensuring their voices are heard and respected in all professional activities.   
• Treat clients, staff, and the public with dignity and respect. 
• Appreciate the experiences and needs of people of diverse economic, social, and cultural backgrounds. 
• Demonstrate a personal sense of integrity. 
• Take ownership of projects and produce solid work products. 
• Work as a member of a team and independently including willingness to help others (cooperative) and share knowledge, information, contacts, and experience. 
• Address issues in a timely manner. 
• Use a high level of professionalism, diplomacy, and sound judgment. 
• Handle and prioritize multiple, competing demands. 

Working Conditions:

• Work during office hours between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A minimum 30-minute break must be taken when at least 6 hours are worked. Work hours must be accurate and contemporaneously recorded. A flextime of work hours may be used, if approved. Your supervisor will consider the needs of the office and the preference of more senior employees before approving flextime. Work after hours or on weekends may be occasionally required.
• Pursuant to WTLS’ telecommuting policy, may work 2 days per week remotely after 90 day probationary period. The scheduled remote days will be determined upon staffing of the position. The telecommuting schedule may be amended with supervisor prior approval on an as needed basis. 
• Work is performed primarily in an office setting and at recruitment events.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Often communicating with people using the phone, email, via video call, or in person.
• Occasionally lift up to 15 pounds.
• Travel within the WTLS service area may be necessary.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Compensation: Starting salary is $58,155.  This position is a full-time position and compensation is made according to the Wage Administration Plan that became effective on August 1, 2007 (as revised on April 22, 2019). 
• Benefits: Full-time benefits include the ability to participate in WTLS’ health insurance plan, dental plan, vision plan, LTD, Life Insurance, 401k retirement plan, paid Annual Leave (based on years of employment-starting at 12 days per year), paid Sick Leave (12 days per year), paid Holidays (12), and paid week off between Christmas and New Year. 

HOW TO APPLY: Send applications via email in Word or PDF format to hiring@wtls.org. Applicants must include a resume, writing sample, and three references with phone numbers. Applications will be accepted, and interviews scheduled on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. No inquires accepted. Only applicants scheduled for interviews will be notified.  

WTLS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.

Position Title: Housing Unit Manager 

Department: Housing 

Employment Status: Full-time/Exempt 

Location: Any (Dyersburg, Huntingdon, Jackson, Memphis, or Selmer) 

Supervisor: Director of Programs and Compliance 

Supervises:  Attorneys and paralegals working in Housing Unit 

Prepared:  July 9, 2024 

Job Summary:   

The Housing Unit Manager ensures the provision of high-quality legal services in housing cases to eligible clients in WTLS’ 21-county service area. The Unit Manager supervises, evaluates, and handles personnel-related matters for staff in the unit. They also manage and monitor progress on implementing WTLS’ mission, priorities, advocacy, and work plans, as they relate to housing issues. The Unit Manager maintains a caseload commensurate with managerial responsibilities. 

Duties/Responsibilities: 

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following tasks: 

Client Representation & Advocacy Duties 

• Provide direct legal assistance to individuals and groups, including interviewing clients, researching, performing factual investigations, preparing pleadings, negotiating case resolutions, and representing clients in court and administrative hearings. 

• Provide counsel, advice, and other brief services when appropriate. 

• Co-counsel with other attorneys and work with paralegals. 

• Develop and implement litigation and/or advocacy strategies to address systemic legal problems. 

• Maintain reduced caseload commensurate with managerial responsibilities. 

Supervisory Duties 

• Manage housing work in the office, including monitoring and regulating workloads. 

• Supervise employees with ongoing feedback and performance reviews. 

• Foster positive work relationships and promote cooperation among WTLS practice groups. 

• Monitor case work to ensure efficient and quality legal work. 

• Participate in and implement management and administrative decision-making involving personnel and WTLS policy.  

• Supervise and enforce WTLS policies and procedures. 

• Convey staff concerns about office and program issues to Executive Leadership Team. 

• Maintain unit SharePoint site, including forms, research library, and form letters. 

• Keep staff apprised of important issues and new developments in the community. 

• Keep WTLS staff apprised of new developments within the substantive legal area(s) in which the manager practices. 

• Engage in local, state, regional, and/or national legal services and the advocacy community. 

• Maintain subject matter expertise in housing issues affecting the WTLS’ client community. 

• Stay apprised of changes in law. 

• Train attorneys and paralegals on issues concerning housing matters and identify external trainings to increase substantive knowledge and case-handling skills. 

• Provide mentorship and guidance. 

Operational Duties 

• Perform case review, case evaluation, case activity direction, prioritization, and acceptance of unit cases based upon program guidelines, available resources, and other appropriate considerations. 

• Intervene directly in any project case or other matter, as necessary. 

• Assist unit staff in the resolution of problems in casework and job performance. 

• Work with other WTLS staff to develop sound relations with the local community, governmental agencies, client groups and bar associations. 

• Speak to community groups, schools, and others about their legal rights and prepare materials relating to these presentations. 

• Represent WTLS at meetings and other external functions. 

• Identify future project funding opportunities and oversee grant writing and application submission. 

• Work closely with other staff in housing-specific projects to ensure accurate reporting and completion of grant deliverables and tasks, including specific education and outreach requirements.    

• Other duties as may be reasonably requested. 

Requirements: 

The requirements listed below are representative of the qualifications, knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job.  

• J.D. Degree.  

• Current licensure in good standing in Tennessee or eligible for reciprocity and willing to secure reciprocity.  

• Ability to conduct research and analysis of pertinent legal authority.  

• Ability to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions.  

• Effective communication skills sufficient to represent clients in legal hearings, meetings, negotiations, or administrative proceedings; to give public presentations, conduct trainings, and do client outreach; to write grant proposals, to manage projects, and to conduct community outreach.  

• Experience working with or sensitivity to individuals from ethnic or language distinct communities.  

• Expertise and ability to provide leadership in one or more substantive areas of importance to client population.  

• Sufficient computer skills to be able to maintain client records, prepare documents, maintain time records, etc. as required.  

• Ability to competently use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe Professional.  

• Ability to competently use company software packages.  

Success Factors:   

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principle of equal justice and to advocacy for low-income persons.      

• Treat clients, staff, and the public with dignity and respect.  

• Appreciate the experiences and needs of people of diverse economic, social, and cultural backgrounds.  

• Demonstrate a personal sense of integrity.  

• Take ownership of projects and produce solid work products.  

• Work as a member of a team and independently including willingness to help others (cooperative) and share knowledge, information, contacts, and experience.  

• Address issues in a timely manner.  

• Use a high level of professionalism, diplomacy, and sound judgment.  

• Handle and prioritize multiple, competing demands.  

Working Conditions:  

• Work during office hours between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A minimum 30-minute break must be taken when at least 6 hours are worked. Work hours must be accurate and contemporaneously recorded. A flextime of work hours may be used, if approved. Your supervisor will consider the needs of the office and the preference of more senior employees before approving flextime. Work after hours or on weekends may be occasionally required.  

• Work is performed primarily in an office setting and at outreach sites.   

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.   

• Often communicating with people using the phone, email, via video call, or in person.  

• Occasionally lift up to 15 pounds.  

• Travel within the WTLS service area may be necessary.  

Compensation & Benefits: 

• Compensation: DOE.  Starting salary is DOE.  This is a full-time position and compensation is made according to the Wage Administration Plan that became effective on August 1, 2007 (as revised on April 22, 2019).  

• Benefits:  Full-time benefits include the ability to participate in WTLS’ health insurance plan, dental plan, vision plan, LTD, Life Insurance, 401k retirement plan, paid Annual Leave (based on years of employment), paid Sick Leave (12 days per year), paid Holidays (12), and paid week off between Christmas and New Year.  

HOW TO APPLY: Send applications via email in Word or PDF format to hiring@wtls.org by July 25, 2024. Applicants must include a resume, writing sample, and three references with phone numbers. Applications will be accepted, and interviews scheduled on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. No inquires accepted. Only applicants scheduled for interviews will be notified.     

WTLS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. 

Position Title: Consumer Staff Attorney 

Department: Consumer 

Employment Status: Full-time, exempt 

Location: Memphis 

Supervisor: Consumer Unit Manager 

Supervises: N/A 

Prepared: July 26, 2024 

Job Summary: Our attorneys represent clients in civil legal matters and work with community organizations and client groups. Candidates should have a strong commitment to ensuring access to equal justice for our low-income neighbors in West Tennessee who face overwhelming problems regarding basic rights such as shelter security, income security, financial security, special education, and freedom from abuse. We are seeking candidates who recognize that these issues often have legal solutions and are dedicated to addressing them.    

The consumer staff attorney will work in our Consumer Unit under Family Centered Legal Solutions (FCLS) and Legal Services Corporation (LSC) funding. The FCLS Project focuses on serving households with children who receive or qualify for public benefits, and LSC funding focuses on serving individuals at or below the federal poverty guidelines. Responsibilities include offering direct legal services to eligible clients, assisting with day-of-court clinics, and conducting outreach and education to the client community. The attorney’s work will focus on auto fraud, debt collection defense, scams targeting low-income individuals, student loans, and other consumer issues.  

Duties/Responsibilities: 

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following tasks: 

• Provide legal advice and representation in civil legal matters in consumer cases 

• Plan and provide client outreach and other education activities for client population 

• Assist in coordinating day-of-court clinics 

• Participate in day-of-court clinics by intaking potential clients, providing on-the-spot advice, and reviewing cases for full representation 

• Attend training relevant to consumer issues affecting WTLS’ client population as directed by the Consumer Unit Manager 

• Collaborate with local or state resources on issues as permitted by funding  

• Help maintain or may be directly responsible for office procedures, such as opening and closing cases, deadline system, and filing 

• Enter thorough data and descriptions into the case management and timekeeping systems in a timely manner 

• Communicate with clients during the course of their representation in a timely manner  

• Assist clients in completing necessary forms 

• Participate in staff meetings, board meetings, and other meetings, as requested 

• Participate on internal committees, work groups, and other efforts to promote and improve organizational operations 

• Establish and maintain a professional working relationship with staff 

• Comply with program policies and regulations of the Legal Services Corporation and other funders 

• Comply with relevant portions of the Legal Services Corporation’s Performance Criteria and the American Bar Association’s Standards for the Provision of Civil Legal Aid 

• Comply with all applicable organizational, professional, and legal requirements for confidentiality 

• Perform such other duties as reasonably requested 

Requirements: 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the qualifications, knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job.   

• J.D. Degree 

• Current licensure in good standing in Tennessee or eligible for reciprocity and willing to secure reciprocity  

• Background check, including references, that is complete and free of concerns 

• General practice experience, including litigation experience, or willingness to participate in appropriate training 

• Ability to conduct research and analysis 

• Ability to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions 

• Ability to draft legally sufficient pleadings and other legal documents, including creating concise and persuasive arguments 

• Effective communication skills sufficient to represent clients in legal hearings, meetings, negotiations, or administrative proceedings; to give public presentations, conduct training, and do client outreach 

• Experience working with or sensitivity to specialized client populations   

• Experience working with or sensitivity to individuals from ethnic or language distinct communities 

• Sufficient computer skills to be able to maintain client records, prepare documents, and maintain contemporaneous time records 

• Ability to competently use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Adobe Professional. 

• Ability to competently use company software packages 

Success Factors:   

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principle of equal justice and to advocacy for low-income persons by actively participating in initiatives and projects that promote access to legal services for low-income individuals, advocating for their rights, and ensuring their voices are heard and respected in all professional activities 

• Treat clients, staff, and the public with dignity and respect 

• Appreciate the experiences and needs of people of diverse economic, social, and cultural backgrounds by engaging in continuous learning about their unique challenges, practicing cultural sensitivity in all interactions, and tailoring support and services to meet their specific needs 

• Demonstrate a personal sense of integrity 

• Demonstrate a high level of self-motivation in completion of duties 

• Take ownership of projects and produce solid work products  

• Work as a member of a team and independently including willingness to help others (cooperative) and share knowledge, information, contacts, and experience  

• Address issues in a timely manner 

• Use a high level of professionalism, diplomacy, and sound judgment 

• Handle and prioritize multiple, competing demands 

Working Conditions:  

• Work during office hours between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A minimum 30-minute break must be taken when at least 6 hours are worked. Work hours must be accurate and contemporaneously recorded. A flextime of work hours may be used, if approved. Your supervisor will consider the needs of the office and the preference of more senior employees before approving flextime. Work after hours or on weekends may be occasionally required.  

• Pursuant to the current telecommuting agreement, may work up to 2 days per week remotely after completion of 90-day probationary period.  The scheduled remote days will be determined upon staffing of the position.  The telecommuting schedule may be amended with prior approval of the Housing and Consumer Unit Managers on an as needed basis. Requests for an amended schedule are contingent on approval from the Unit Leads and will be determined on a case-by-case basis given the current unit staffing.  

• Work is performed primarily in an office setting and at outreach sites.   

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.   

• Often communicating with people using the phone, email, via video call, or in person.  

• Occasionally lift up to 15 pounds.  

• Travel within the WTLS service area may be necessary.  

Compensation & Benefits: 

• Compensation: DOE.  Starting salary for newly admitted attorneys is $58,155.  This position is a full-time position and compensation is made according to the Wage Administration Plan that became effective on August 1, 2007 (as revised on April 22, 2019).  

• Benefits:  Full-time benefits include the ability to participate in WTLS’ health insurance plan, dental plan, vision plan, LTD, Life Insurance, 401k retirement plan, paid Annual Leave (based on years of employment-starting at 12 days per year), paid Sick Leave (12 days per year), paid Holidays (12), and paid week off between Christmas and New Year.  

HOW TO APPLY: Send applications via email in Word or PDF format to hiring@wtls.org. Applicants must include a resume, writing sample, and three references with phone numbers. Applications will be accepted, and interviews scheduled on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. No inquires accepted. Only applicants scheduled for interviews will be notified.   

WTLS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. 

Position Title: Housing/Consumer Staff Attorney 

Department: Housing/Consumer 

Employment Status: Full-time, exempt 

Location: Memphis 

Supervisor: Consumer Unit Manager 

Supervises: N/A 

Prepared: July 26, 2024 

Job Summary: Our attorneys represent clients in civil legal matters and work with community organizations and client groups. Candidates should have a strong commitment to ensuring access to equal justice for our low-income neighbors in West Tennessee who face overwhelming problems regarding basic rights such as shelter security, income security, financial security, special education, and freedom from abuse.  We are seeking candidates who recognize that these issues often have legal solutions and are dedicated to addressing them.    

The housing/consumer staff attorney will divide their time equally between our Housing Unit and our Consumer Unit, primarily under Family Centered Legal Solutions (FCLS) funding. The FCLS Project focuses on serving households with children who receive or qualify for public benefits. Responsibilities include offering direct legal services to eligible clients, assisting with day-of-court clinics, and conducting outreach and education to the client community. The attorney’s housing work will focus on landlord/tenant matters, subsidized housing matters, home repairs, and mobile home ownership issues. Their consumer work will focus on auto fraud, debt collection defense, scams targeting low-income individuals, student loans, and other consumer issues.  

Duties/Responsibilities: 

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following tasks: 

• Provide legal advice and representation in civil legal matters in housing (50%) and consumer (50%) cases 

• Plan and provide client outreach and other education activities for client population 

• Assist in coordinating day-of-court clinics 

• Participate in day-of-court clinics by intaking potential clients, providing on-the-spot advice, and reviewing cases for full representation 

• Attend training relevant to housing and consumer issues affecting WTLS’ client population as directed by the Housing or Consumer Unit Manager 

• Collaborate with local or state resources on issues as permitted by funding  

• Help maintain or may be directly responsible for office procedures, such as opening and closing cases, deadline system, and filing 

• Enter thorough data and descriptions into the case management and timekeeping systems in a timely manner 

• Communicate with clients during the course of their representation in a timely manner  

• Assist clients in completing necessary forms 

• Participate in staff meetings, board meetings, and other meetings, as requested 

• Participate on internal committees, work groups, and other efforts to promote and improve organizational operations 

• Establish and maintain a professional working relationship with staff 

• Comply with program policies and regulations of the Legal Services Corporation and other funders 

• Comply with relevant portions of the Legal Services Corporation’s Performance Criteria and the American Bar Association’s Standards for the Provision of Civil Legal Aid 

• Comply with all applicable organizational, professional, and legal requirements for confidentiality 

• Comply with documentation requirements of funder and assist with and ensure that all required documentation to establish client eligibility is maintained appropriately 

• Perform such other duties as reasonably requested 

Requirements: 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the qualifications, knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job.   

• J.D. Degree 

• Current licensure in good standing in Tennessee or eligible for reciprocity and willing to secure reciprocity  

• Background check, including references, that is complete and free of concerns 

• General practice experience, including litigation experience, or willingness to participate in appropriate training 

• Ability to conduct research and analysis 

• Ability to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions 

• Ability to draft legally sufficient pleadings and other legal documents, including creating concise and persuasive arguments 

• Effective communication skills sufficient to represent clients in legal hearings, meetings, negotiations, or administrative proceedings; to give public presentations, conduct training, and do client outreach 

• Experience working with or sensitivity to specialized client populations   

• Experience working with or sensitivity to individuals from ethnic or language distinct communities 

• Sufficient computer skills to be able to maintain client records, prepare documents, and maintain contemporaneous time records 

• Ability to competently use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Adobe Professional. 

• Ability to competently use company software packages 

Success Factors:   

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principle of equal justice and to advocacy for low-income persons by actively participating in initiatives and projects that promote access to legal services for low-income individuals, advocating for their rights, and ensuring their voices are heard and respected in all professional activities 

• Treat clients, staff, and the public with dignity and respect 

• Appreciate the experiences and needs of people of diverse economic, social, and cultural backgrounds by engaging in continuous learning about their unique challenges, practicing cultural sensitivity in all interactions, and tailoring support and services to meet their specific needs 

• Demonstrate a personal sense of integrity 

• Demonstrate a high level of self-motivation in completion of duties 

• Take ownership of projects and produce solid work products  

• Work as a member of a team and independently including willingness to help others (cooperative) and share knowledge, information, contacts, and experience  

• Address issues in a timely manner 

• Use a high level of professionalism, diplomacy, and sound judgment 

• Handle and prioritize multiple, competing demands 

Working Conditions:  

• Work during office hours between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A minimum 30-minute break must be taken when at least 6 hours are worked. Work hours must be accurate and contemporaneously recorded. A flextime of work hours may be used, if approved. Your supervisor will consider the needs of the office and the preference of more senior employees before approving flextime. Work after hours or on weekends may be occasionally required.  

• Pursuant to the current telecommuting agreement, may work up to 2 days per week remotely after completion of 90-day probationary period.  The scheduled remote days will be determined upon staffing of the position.  The telecommuting schedule may be amended with prior approval of the Housing and Consumer Unit Managers on an as needed basis. Requests for an amended schedule are contingent on approval from the Unit Leads and will be determined on a case-by-case basis given the current unit staffing.  

• Work is performed primarily in an office setting and at outreach sites.   

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.   

• Often communicating with people using the phone, email, via video call, or in person.  

• Occasionally lift up to 15 pounds.  

• Travel within the WTLS service area may be necessary.  

Compensation & Benefits: 

• Compensation: DOE. Starting salary for newly admitted attorneys is $58,155.  This position is a full-time position and compensation is made according to the Wage Administration Plan that became effective on August 1, 2007 (as revised on April 22, 2019).  

• Benefits:  Full-time benefits include the ability to participate in WTLS’ health insurance plan, dental plan, vision plan, LTD, Life Insurance, 401k retirement plan, paid Annual Leave (based on years of employment-starting at 12 days per year), paid Sick Leave (12 days per year), paid Holidays (12), and paid week off between Christmas and New Year.  

HOW TO APPLY: Send applications via email in Word or PDF format to hiring@wtls.org. Applicants must include a resume, writing sample, and three references with phone numbers. Applications will be accepted, and interviews scheduled on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. No inquires accepted. Only applicants scheduled for interviews will be notified.   

WTLS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.

Position Title:               Housing/Consumer Staff Attorney

Department:                 Housing/Consumer

Employment Status:     Full-time, exempt

Location:                      Jackson

Supervisor:                        Consumer Unit Manager

Supervises:                   N/A

Prepared:                          July 26, 2024

Job Summary: Our attorneys represent clients in civil legal matters and work with community organizations and client groups. Candidates should have a strong commitment to ensuring access to equal justice for our low-income neighbors in West Tennessee who face overwhelming problems regarding basic rights such as shelter security, income security, financial security, special education, and freedom from abuse.  We are seeking candidates who recognize that these issues often have legal solutions and are dedicated to addressing them.  

The housing/consumer staff attorney will divide their time equally between our Housing Unit and our Consumer Unit, primarily under Family Centered Legal Solutions (FCLS) funding. The FCLS Project focuses on serving households with children who receive or qualify for public benefits. Responsibilities include offering direct legal services to eligible clients, assisting with day-of-court clinics, and conducting outreach and education to the client community. The attorney’s housing work will focus on landlord/tenant matters, subsidized housing matters, home repairs, and mobile home ownership issues. Their consumer work will focus on auto fraud, debt collection defense, scams targeting low-income individuals, student loans, and other consumer issues.

Duties/Responsibilities:

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following tasks:

• Provide legal advice and representation in civil legal matters in housing (50%) and consumer (50%) cases
• Plan and provide client outreach and other education activities for client population
• Assist in coordinating day-of-court clinics
• Participate in day-of-court clinics by intaking potential clients, providing on-the-spot advice, and reviewing cases for full representation
• Attend training relevant to housing and consumer issues affecting WTLS’ client population as directed by the Housing or Consumer Unit Manager

• Collaborate with local or state resources on issues as permitted by funding 

• Help maintain or may be directly responsible for office procedures, such as opening and closing cases, deadline system, and filing
• Enter thorough data and descriptions into the case management and timekeeping systems in a timely manner
• Communicate with clients during the course of their representation in a timely manner
• Assist clients in completing necessary forms
• Participate in staff meetings, board meetings, and other meetings, as requested
• Participate on internal committees, work groups, and other efforts to promote and improve organizational operations
• Establish and maintain a professional working relationship with staff
• Comply with program policies and regulations of the Legal Services Corporation and other funders
• Comply with relevant portions of the Legal Services Corporation’s Performance Criteria and the American Bar Association’s Standards for the Provision of Civil Legal Aid
• Comply with all applicable organizational, professional, and legal requirements for confidentiality
• Comply with documentation requirements of funder and assist with and ensure that all required documentation to establish client eligibility is maintained appropriately

• Perform such other duties as reasonably requested

Requirements:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the qualifications, knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job.  

• D. Degree
• Current licensure in good standing in Tennessee or eligible for reciprocity and willing to secure reciprocity
• Background check, including references, that is complete and free of concerns
• General practice experience, including litigation experience, or willingness to participate in appropriate training
• Ability to conduct research and analysis
• Ability to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions
• Ability to draft legally sufficient pleadings and other legal documents, including creating concise and persuasive arguments
• Effective communication skills sufficient to represent clients in legal hearings, meetings, negotiations, or administrative proceedings; to give public presentations, conduct training, and do client outreach
• Experience working with or sensitivity to specialized client populations 
• Experience working with or sensitivity to individuals from ethnic or language distinct communities
• Sufficient computer skills to be able to maintain client records, prepare documents, and maintain contemporaneous time records
• Ability to competently use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Adobe Professional.
• Ability to competently use company software packages

Success Factors:  

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principle of equal justice and to advocacy for low-income persons by actively participating in initiatives and projects that promote access to legal services for low-income individuals, advocating for their rights, and ensuring their voices are heard and respected in all professional activities
• Treat clients, staff, and the public with dignity and respect
• Appreciate the experiences and needs of people of diverse economic, social, and cultural backgrounds by engaging in continuous learning about their unique challenges, practicing cultural sensitivity in all interactions, and tailoring support and services to meet their specific needs
• Demonstrate a personal sense of integrity
• Demonstrate a high level of self-motivation in completion of duties
• Take ownership of projects and produce solid work products 
• Work as a member of a team and independently including willingness to help others (cooperative) and share knowledge, information, contacts, and experience 
• Address issues in a timely manner
• Use a high level of professionalism, diplomacy, and sound judgment
• Handle and prioritize multiple, competing demands

Working Conditions:

• Work during office hours between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A minimum 30-minute break must be taken when at least 6 hours are worked. Work hours must be accurate and contemporaneously recorded. A flextime of work hours may be used, if approved. Your supervisor will consider the needs of the office and the preference of more senior employees before approving flextime. Work after hours or on weekends may be occasionally required.
• Pursuant to the current telecommuting agreement, may work up to 2 days per week remotely after completion of 90-day probationary period. The scheduled remote days will be determined upon staffing of the position.  The telecommuting schedule may be amended with prior approval of the Housing and Consumer Unit Managers on an as needed basis. Requests for an amended schedule are contingent on approval from the Unit Leads and will be determined on a case-by-case basis given the current unit staffing.
• Work is performed primarily in an office setting and at outreach sites.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Often communicating with people using the phone, email, via video call, or in person.
• Occasionally lift up to 15 pounds.
• Travel within the WTLS service area may be necessary.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Compensation: Starting salary for newly admitted attorneys is $58,155. This position is a full-time position and compensation is made according to the Wage Administration Plan that became effective on August 1, 2007 (as revised on April 22, 2019). 
• Benefits: Full-time benefits include the ability to participate in WTLS’ health insurance plan, dental plan, vision plan, LTD, Life Insurance, 401k retirement plan, paid Annual Leave (based on years of employment-starting at 12 days per year), paid Sick Leave (12 days per year), paid Holidays (12), and paid week off between Christmas and New Year. 

HOW TO APPLY: Send applications via email in Word or PDF format to hiring@wtls.org. Applicants must include a resume, writing sample, and three references with phone numbers. Applications will be accepted, and interviews scheduled on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. No inquires accepted. Only applicants scheduled for interviews will be notified.  

WTLS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.

Position Title:  Pro Bono & Re-Entry Staff Attorney

Department:  Pro Bono Unit

Employment Status:  Full-time

Location:  Jackson

Supervisor:  Pro Bono Managing Attorney

Supervises:  N/A

Prepared:  10/3/2024

Job Summary: The Pro Bono & Re-entry Staff Attorney will be WTLS’ substantive law expert on re-entry and expungement matters and will utilize this expertise to train and supervise pro bono efforts focused on re-entry and expungement matters. The Pro Bono & Re-Entry Staff Attorney will also operate WTLS’ Pro Bono Program under the supervision of the Pro Bono Managing Attorney, including case assessment, case placement, clinic planning, and volunteer recruitment.

Duties/Responsibilities:

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following tasks:

• Provide direct legal assistance to individuals and groups, including interviewing clients, researching, performing factual investigations, preparing pleadings and memoranda, negotiating case resolutions, and representing clients in court and administrative hearings.
• Provide counsel, advice, and other brief services when appropriate.
• Co-counsel with other attorneys and work with paralegals.
• Develop and implement litigation and/or advocacy strategies to address systemic legal problems.
• Acquire and maintain knowledge of re-entry related legal education.
• Educate and train WTLS staff, volunteers, and the private bar on re-entry legal issues.
• Supervise re-entry pro bono services.
• Review cases referred from intake for pro bono and contract attorney services.
• Direct the case acceptance process with volunteer and contract attorneys.
• Communicate with volunteer and contract attorneys about placed cases.
• Maintain pro bono case files and ensure timely file follow up and closure.
• Develop and assist with pro bono clinics.
• Participate in statewide pro bono initiatives.
• Recruit volunteers and contract attorneys.
• Participate on internal committees, work groups, and other efforts to promote and improve WTLS operations.
• Establish and maintain professional working relationships with office staff.
• Accurately record and update timekeeping entries in real-time, ensuring detailed and precise documentation of work hours, project time allocation, and task completion for reporting and payroll purposes.
• Comply with program policies and regulations of the Legal Services Corporation and other funders.
• Comply with relevant portions of the Legal Services Corporation’s Performance Criteria and the American Bar Association’s Standards for the Provision of Civil Legal Aid.
• Comply with all applicable organizational, professional, and legal requirements for confidentiality.
• Perform other duties and training as requested by supervisor.

Requirements:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the qualifications, knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job.    

• D. Degree. 
• Current licensure in good standing in Tennessee or eligible for reciprocity and willing to secure reciprocity. 
• Ability to conduct research and analysis of pertinent legal authority. 
• Ability to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions. 
• Effective communication skills sufficient to represent clients in legal hearings, meetings, negotiations, or administrative proceedings; to give public presentations, conduct trainings, and do client outreach; and to conduct community outreach. 
• Experience working with or sensitivity to individuals from ethnic or language distinct communities. 
• Sufficient computer skills to be able to maintain client records, prepare documents, maintain time records, etc. as required. 
• Ability to competently use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe Professional. 
• Ability to competently use company software packages. 

Success Factors:  

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principle of equal justice and to advocacy for low-income persons by actively participating in initiatives and projects that promote access to legal services for low-income individuals, advocating for their rights, and ensuring their voices are heard and respected in all professional activities.   
• Treat clients, staff, and the public with dignity and respect. 
• Appreciate the experiences and needs of people of diverse economic, social, and cultural backgrounds. 
• Demonstrate a personal sense of integrity. 
• Take ownership of projects and produce solid work products. 
• Work as a member of a team and independently including willingness to help others (cooperative) and share knowledge, information, contacts, and experience. 
• Address issues in a timely manner. 
• Use a high level of professionalism, diplomacy, and sound judgment. 
• Handle and prioritize multiple, competing demands. 

Working Conditions:

• Work during office hours between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A minimum 30-minute break must be taken when at least 6 hours are worked. Work hours must be accurate and contemporaneously recorded. A flextime of work hours may be used, if approved. Your supervisor will consider the needs of the office and the preference of more senior employees before approving flextime. Work after hours or on weekends may be occasionally required.
• Pursuant to WTLS’ telecommuting policy, may work 2 days per week remotely after 90 day probationary period. The scheduled remote days will be determined upon staffing of the position. The telecommuting schedule may be amended with supervisor prior approval. 
• Work is performed primarily in an office setting and at recruitment events.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Often communicating with people using the phone, email, via video call, or in person.
• Occasionally lift up to 15 pounds.
• Travel within the WTLS service area may be necessary.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Compensation: Starting salary is $58,155.  This is a full-time position and compensation is made according to the Wage Administration Plan that became effective on August 1, 2007 (as revised on April 22, 2019). 
• Benefits: Full-time benefits include the ability to participate in WTLS’ health insurance plan, dental plan, vision plan, LTD, Life Insurance, 401k retirement plan, paid Annual Leave (based on years of employment-starting at 12 days per year), paid Sick Leave (12 days per year), paid Holidays (12), and paid week off between Christmas and New Year. 

HOW TO APPLY: Use this link to complete the application. Applicants must include a resume, writing sample, and three references with phone numbers. Applications will be accepted, and interviews scheduled on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. No inquiries accepted. Only applicants scheduled for interviews will be notified.  

WTLS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.