Description:
Job Summary:MCLA announces an immediate opening for a full-time Staff Attorney position in the District Court Help Center in La Plata, MD. Successful candidates will demonstrate an ability to handle a broad range of duties in a timely manner. Please find below a summary of the job description.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide brief legal advice and information to self-represented litigants in connection with civil legal issues, including Landlord and Tenant Matters, Civil Claims, Expungement and Shielding of Records, Consumer Matters, Return of Property, Domestic Violence/Peace Orders, Family Law, and Foreclosure.
- Assist self-represented litigants in drafting their pleadings and motions, preparing for trial, completing court forms, and understanding court documents and the law.
- Provide referrals to appropriate legal service organizations, agencies, and lawyer referral services wherever appropriate.
- Local travel as needed between our various offices.
- Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the position's essential functions.
Qualifications:
- Admitted to practice in the State of Maryland.
- One-year or more civil litigation experience, clinical or clerkship experience will be considered.
- Ability to conduct rapid legal research using Westlaw.
- Strong customer service skills including ability to empathize and assist people who are distressed.
- Ability to communicate complex legal concepts in simple terms.
- Ability to travel to different offices on short notice.
- Fluency in Spanish and American Sign Language strongly preferred.
Work Environment:
Work duties are typically performed in a general office setting with regular interaction via telephone, videoconference, instant messaging and email, and in-person. Certain work duties may be performed in community setting or remotely.