Description:
A Non-Profit Organization is seeking Staff Attorneys for our Guardianship/Conservatorship Program who thrive in a team environment and have the drive and determination to advocate for the rights of people in guardianship or conservatorship proceedings in Oregon.The Staff Attorney performs free direct legal representation and advocacy services for individuals, including enforcing the state and federal laws and providing information and advice for self-advocacy. This position is primarily responsible for representing individuals in guardianship or conservatorship proceedings upon appointment by the court.
What you can expect to accomplish:
- Provides direct legal representation and advocacy to clients in a timely and ethical manner when appointed by the Court.
- Provides consultation, technical assistance, and legal education services and training to program staff, consumer/client groups and other appropriate groups and individuals.
- Develops cases by interviewing individuals, requesting, and reviewing records. Researches additional information necessary to further develop case.
- Participates in case reviews and formulates advocacy plan in conjunction with team.
- Investigates complaints of reported incidents of abuse and neglect of clients.
- Maintain current knowledge of relevant laws, services and modes of service delivery relevant to clients. Conduct legal research.
- Assists in development, implementation and evaluation of program goals and priorities.
- Participates in agency outreach and monitoring. Maintains a working knowledge of all DRO services and program areas.
- Assists in the development and production of agency publications including client ‘Know Your Rights' guides.
- Participates in development and implementation of advocacy strategies on behalf of individuals and groups directed at systems reform.
- Provides analysis of and develop responses to proposed rules, regulations, and legislation affecting clients.
What we are looking for:
- A juris doctorate from an accredited law school.
- Active membership in Oregon State Bar or willingness to either seek reciprocity or to take the Oregon State Bar at the next available opportunity.
- Up to five years' experience in administrative law, alternative dispute resolution, or representing individuals with disabilities in legal issues related to employment, government services, or housing.
- Demonstrated advocacy and/or social services experience.
- Broad knowledge of quality services for people with disabilities.
- Experience in civil rights, disability law, and/or other public interest law.
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
- Demonstrated ability to provide people with disabilities the opportunity for self-determination and empowerment.
- Ability to use trauma informed intervention skills to advocate persistently.
- Demonstrated aptitude and interest in working collaboratively, particularly with state agencies.
- Strong communication skills using patience and negotiating ability.
- Job requires specialized computer skills. Must be adept at using various applications including database, spreadsheet, report writing, project management, graphics, word processing, presentation creation/editing, communicate by e-mail, use scheduling software, Google Apps, Microsoft 365 Suite of Products, and PC operating systems. Effectively uses computer to research.
