Description:

Description:
Defend dignity, restore hope, and fight for fairness in the consumer justice system.

The Two-Year Fellow/Attorney will work as a member of the Consumer Defense Unit to serve and represent low-income individuals facing debt collection lawsuits, default judgments, and other consumer-related legal issues in Orange and Los Angeles County. This is a two-year, full-time, exempt position reporting to the Supervising Attorney and is based in the Santa Ana office. Must be a member of the California Bar and be within 3 years of post-law school graduation.

Responsibilities:

Provide litigation support and manage an individual caseload under attorney supervision, including motion practice, negotiations, settlements, trials, and client advocacy in consumer defense matters.
Interview, advise, and represent clients on debt collection, credit reporting, and related consumer issues using trauma-informed approaches.
Engage in community outreach and education by leading “Know Your Rights” workshops, educating homeowners on protecting home equity, and collaborating with community groups and coalitions focused on consumer and financial justice.
Develop and deploy multilingual educational materials and social media campaigns to expand consumer awareness and protect vulnerable homeowners.
Interview and communicate with clients effectively and empathetically while maintaining detailed, accurate case notes and timekeeping in Legal Server.
Conduct case investigations, witness interviews, and thorough factual and legal research to support effective advocacy.
Draft pleadings, motions, memoranda, correspondence, and other legal documents in consumer defense matters.
Collaborate with community organizations, conduct outreach and education, and coordinate wrap-around legal services with CLA SoCal's other legal units.
Work with a multicultural perspective of inclusion.
Perform other duties as required to meet organizational needs.

Requirements:
Education:

Juris Doctor and active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California.
Graduated from law school within 3 years prior to hiring date.

Qualifications:

Familiarity with consumer law, debt collection defense, and credit reporting issues – Preferred.
Familiarity with foreclosure process, mortgage arrearage payments, loss mitigation, and/or homeowners' legal options - Preferred.
Litigation experience, including discovery, depositions, and trial representation – Preferred.
Bilingual proficiency – Preferred.
Strong advocacy skills with excellent written and oral communication abilities.
Organized and able to manage multiple responsibilities, meet deadlines, and work independently while contributing effectively to a team.
Comfortable providing real-time legal counsel and advice with attention to detail and professionalism.
Demonstrated ability to work empathetically with indigent clients using client-centered and trauma-informed approaches.
Proficient in Microsoft Office and document preparation software, with a strong commitment to social justice.
Commitment to CLA SoCal's mission and values.
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for travel within the service area.

Holistic Benefits:

May work as little as 35-hour workweek.
Hybrid Schedule
16 paid holidays + PTO (including wellness days) starting Day 1
Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and long-term disability
401(k) with employer contribution
Student loan reimbursement program
Bilingual bonus pay for qualified staff

About CLA SoCal:
Community Legal Aid SoCal (CLA SoCal) is a welcoming and hopeful non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the legal needs of low-income residents and seniors throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties. We provide equal employment opportunities. We strongly encourage all interested individuals to apply, including people of different abilities, religions, identities, orientations, nationalities, and ethnicities. All individuals who are seeking a welcoming environment who celebrate and value the unique characteristics of every member of the team who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive at CLA SoCal to apply for this role.

Salary Description
$80,000 per year