Job Openings

West Tennessee Legal Services Staff/Managing Attorney – Cycles of Sucesss

Position Title: Staff/ Managing Attorney
Employment Status: Full-Time; Exempt
Location: Selmer
Supervisor: WTLS General Counsel/Executive Director
Supervisory responsibilities: Cycles of Success Paralegal
Job Summary:

Attorney will provide comprehensive civil legal help to low-income families in McNairy and Hardeman Counties to break the cycle of poverty using a multi-generational approach, in collaboration with the Tennessee Department of Human Services. As a part of a holistic approach, representation may include varying areas of law as needed, administrative advocacy, litigation in state and federal courts, and community education for clients in accordance with program guidelines and priorities and the Code of Professional Responsibility.

This position is funded by, and in collaboration with, the Cycles of Success grant from the Tennessee Department of Human Services and attorney must adhere to goals and outcomes detailed in the grant contract.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Meets the requirements of the Cycles of Success Grant Contract.
• Reviews and supervises the work of the Cycles of Success paralegal.
• Depending on experience, may also serve as managing attorney of the Cycles of Success grant for an additional stipend, in which case the successful candidate would also be responsible for grant management and reporting with the assistance of WTLS’ Executive Director/designees and CFO/designees.
• In coordination with the Cycles of Success paralegal, communicates and establishes contacts with courts, community agencies, local school systems, and local client groups to implement the Cycles of Success Program.
• Provides direct civil legal aid to persons who qualify for assistance under the Cycles of Success grant to overcome barriers to stopping the multi-generational cycle of poverty
• Participates in the firm’s community education program, by being available to speak with community groups and agency staff, suggesting ideas for and helping to prepare community education materials, and generally looking for ways to alert clients to their legal rights and responsibilities in the field of poverty law.
• Works with WTLS’ pro bono coordinator to promote private bar involvement.
• Keeps contemporaneous time records and maintains case notes in case management system.
• Develop familiarity and compliance with program requirements of specific funder, the general program requirements of the Legal Services Corporation, and the American Bar Association’s Standards for the Provision of Civil Legal Aid.
• Performs such other duties as reasonably requested.

Requirements:

• Admitted to practice in Tennessee or eligible for admission. Will consider applicants who are sitting for the upcoming February Bar exam.
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form.
• Proficiency in basic computer skills.
• Driver’s license and access to transportation

Preferred:

• Substantive experience in providing civil legal assistance to low-income individuals and families.
• Some level of Spanish fluency a plus.

Working Conditions:

Office is open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. This is an exempt position and work after hours or on weekends may be required on occasion. Work is performed primarily in an office setting. Majority of time spent seated typing on a computer or talking and listening on the phone, with someone in person, or in court. Standing, walking, and bending are necessary on a normal day. Occasionally lifts and carries up to 25 pounds. Some travel is necessary, primarily in McNairy and Hardeman counties but also occasionally to other locations for meetings and trainings.

How to Apply:

Email resume and writing sample to Emma Covington: Emma@wtls.org

WTLS is an equal opportunity employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. This job description is descriptive and not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities.