Description:
HVL seeks a full-time staff attorney for its Veterans programs. Primary responsibilities include to triage applicants seeking assistance, identify legal needs and viability, provide advice and counsel to clients, and mentor volunteer attorneys working on pro bono cases. The attorney may also provide direct representation to a limited number of veterans. The individual in this position requires a high degree of professionalism, autonomy, and self-motivation. HVL has adopted a hybrid work model where staff may work from home part of the week. For this position, the candidate will work Tuesdays at HVL's downtown office and most Friday afternoons at the VA Hospital near the Medical Center.Key Areas of Responsibilities
- Provide legal consultations to individuals facing various civil legal issues.
- Deciding whether applicant's legal needs are appropriate for volunteer representation through HVL.
- Analyze, investigate, and prepare client matters for referral to volunteer attorneys.
- Recruit and provide substantive mentoring to pro bono attorneys who are representing HVL clients, including potentially troubleshooting complex legal matters.
- Collaborate with other service organizations, judges, and community partners to creatively reach and serve individuals in need of free legal services.
- Develop subject-matter expertise in legal areas relevant to our clients to support HVL's institutional knowledge on screening potential clients and supporting volunteer attorneys.
- Maintain timely documentation of all case-related activities, assist with grant reporting activities, and other tasks as assigned by HVL.
Education and Experience Required:
- Juris Doctor and State Bar licensure in Texas, in good standing.
- Excellent time management & prioritization skills.
- Strong legal analysis skills, writing skills, and communication skills.
- Comfort with working with veterans, including those who may be hospitalized and/or in declining health and those in recovery for substance abuse issues.
- Ability to engage empathetically with individuals facing barriers accessing legal services.
- Adept at networking to inspire and collaborate with pro bono attorneys and community partners.
- Ability to manage a caseload in accordance with internal policies and procedures.