Job Description

The Housing Rights Center (HRC) is seeking a Staff Attorney for our Los Angeles County Eviction Defense Program (LACEDP). HRC is part of the Right to Counsel Coalition which is comprised of dozens of legal services organizations and tenant organizing community-based organizations. 

Through the EDP, legal service providers from the Right to Counsel Coalition will offer Countywide free full-scope representation services in unlawful detainer (eviction) cases to low-income renters. We also provide limited scope legal assistance for renters such as counsel and advice, letters to the landlord, and other assistance needed prior to eviction filing. The Staff Attorney will work to litigate full-scope legal representation to tenants facing eviction proceedings in Pasadena and West Covina Courthouses.  

BACKGROUND: 

HRC’s mission is to actively support and promote fair housing through education and advocacy, to the end that all persons have the opportunity to secure the housing they desire and can afford, without discrimination based on their race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, familial status, marital status, disability, ancestry, age, source of income, or other characteristics protected by law.  

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Active membership in the California State Bar; 
• Prefer any trial or administrative hearing experience; 
• Knowledge of landlord-tenant, housing law, rent control and the eviction process preferred; 
• Demonstrated commitment to serving the needs of low-income persons; 
• Demonstrated ability to function professionally and effectively within a highly stressful environment; 
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team; 
• Ability to work effectively with staff, volunteers, students, attorneys, and community members; 
• Excellent writing and public speaking skills;  
• Ability to travel to Pasadena or West Covina courthouses; and 
• If necessary, willingness to work evenings, weekend meetings or events, and work weeks in excess of 40 hours.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Litigate eviction cases which includes initial consultation, discovery, brief and motion writing, responsive pleadings, negotiations, prepare cases for trial, and trial litigation; 
• Interview and counsel clients affected by housing problems; 
• Participate in clinics and other community outreach projects; 
• Be part of a team that works on fair housing (discrimination) complaints throughout Southern California;  
• Work collaboratively with other eviction attorneys on a countywide eviction defense program; 
• Work on policy issues relating to eviction and/or housing; and 
• Other duties as assigned.

HRC requires all employees to be vaccinated for COVID-19. HRC is an equal opportunity employer and will consider requests for reason accommodations based on disability or sincerely held religious beliefs without undue hardship.

*NOTE – This position is currently funded using designated funds: there is no assurance of ongoing funding or employment beyond 2022. 

BENEFITS:  

Competitive salary plus an excellent benefits package including health, vision, and dental insurance. A 403(b) retirement plan with an employer contribution of 4.5% is available after one year of employment. 

The Housing Rights Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer