Description:

Three Rivers Legal Services (TRLS) has an immediate opening for a Staff Attorney to join our Housing Law Project. This is a litigation position representing clients primarily in rental housing and tenants' rights matters. This includes eviction defense, subsidized housing preservation, security deposit retention and recovery, rental debt collection defense, and other associated consumer protection matters arising from the landlord/tenant relationship. This position may also serve older adults and vulnerable populations with other types of litigation, including but not limited to ejectment, unlawful detainer, and claims of equitable title. This position involves both defense and affirmative litigation. The attorney may work out of the TRLS Jacksonville, Gainesville, or Lake City Office. Remote work from within the State of Florida may also be considered for the right candidate. A desire to represent the needs of low-income clients and underserved populations is essential. TRLS is a nonprofit law firm that provides free legal assistance to low-income clients, the elderly and underserved populations. TRLS is dedicated to the provision of quality legal assistance and to community empowerment through preventive legal education and outreach.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Provide civil legal services to clients and client groups including advice, brief services, negotiation, administrative representation, and court litigation.
In court actions, act as counsel for eligible clients and represent them throughout the proceeding until its termination including by drafting pleadings, motions and written discovery, taking and defending depositions and representing clients at mediation.
Draft reports, letters, and community outreach materials.
Conduct legal research and draft legal memoranda in support of representing eligible clients.
Meet with clients throughout services and conduct thorough investigations of the facts supporting their cases.
Review and supervise work product of assigned support staff member(s).
In coordination with the Project Manager and other staff, communicate and foster relationships with the courts, local and state bar associations, community agencies, and local client groups.
Represent TRLS at meetings, community events, and other outreach.

Qualifications:

Attorney in good standing with the Florida Bar or law school graduate pending admission to the Florida Bar.
Excellent oral, written, and legal research skills.
Excellent organizational skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Willingness to tackle challenging work and adapt quickly to new assignments.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and G-Suite.
Demonstrated interest in public interest law and commitment to justice for low-income persons.
Access to automobile during working hours, insured, and licensed to drive.