Description:

Role Description:
Shelter Policy and Legal Services (Shelter PALS or SPALS) is the country's first and only pro bono legal-aid program dedicated exclusively to the needs of animal shelters and rescue groups. Shelter PALS' programs and projects have impact on companion animals statewide and provide legal advice on a variety of animal welfare areas including shelter management, animal care, animal cruelty, and access to veterinary care for all California pet owners.

We champion policy change through active legislative work and counsel shelter and rescue group clients throughout California to improve outcomes for animals and oversee and support litigation in connection with our mission and goals. We are seeking a staff counsel to work closely with the Lead Counsel to support the initiatives of the Shelter PALS program. This role will assist with legal research, policy development, responding to client questions, litigation support, and advocacy efforts related to all aspects of companion animal welfare issues.

The Staff Counsel reports to the Chief Financial Officer and works closely with SPALS Lead Counsel. This position will support both SPALS and the SF SPCA General Counsel, with the majority of support allocated to SPALS.

California Bar membership is a mandatory pre-requisite for this position. We will not consider anyone who is not licensed in California.

Core Responsibilities:

Conduct comprehensive legal research on animal welfare laws, regulations, and case law, particularly as they pertain to shelter and rescue animals, and humane treatment.
Assist SPALS Lead Counsel in drafting legal documents, including advocacy materials, litigation briefing, policy briefs, shelter contracts, and compliance documents, ensuring alignment to organizational goals and legal standards.
Collaborate with the Chief Executive Officer and SPALS Lead Counsel to develop and implement strategic initiatives to influence legislation and public policy that enhances animal welfare.
Track relevant legislation and regulatory developments, preparing summaries and recommendations for the team to inform advocacy efforts.
Counsel shelters and rescues with respect to compliance with local, state, and federal laws related to animal welfare and shelter and rescue operations.
Supporting the SF SPCA General Counsel:
Monitor, route, and escalate legal notices and privacy compliance inquiries
Support routine Legal Department administration
Prepare vendor contracts, from drafting to execution
Provide corporate governance support as needed
Prepare client-facing legal communications, from drafting to delivery

Requirements:

A Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
1-3 years of relevant legal experience, ideally in animal law, nonprofit advocacy, or public interest law, or a recent law school graduate
Strong research, analytical, and writing skills, with the ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and effectively.
A genuine passion for animal welfare and experience in community outreach or advocacy is preferred.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a collaborative approach to teamwork.
Proficient in legal research tools and standard office software.
Knowledge: Understanding of legislative processes and current issues in animal welfare is a plus.
CA Bar membership