Staff Attorney - Victim Advocacy (DV/Family Law Unit)

Job Description

Job Description

Join the Movement for Justice in Northern Nevada   At Northern Nevada Legal Aid (NNLA), we don’t just practice law we change lives. Since 1965, we’ve been the legal lifeline for thousands of Nevadans, from survivors of domestic violence to children in crisis, seniors facing exploitation, and families fighting to keep their homes.   Working here means more than a job. It means joining a team that’s passionate, collaborative, and deeply rooted in the community we serve. Our attorneys and staff show up every day knowing their work matters that every case, every client, and every courtroom appearance has the power to make real change.   Why NNLA? Because here, you’ll find:

• Impactful Work: Your advocacy directly affects people’s safety, stability, and future.
• Growth & Mentorship: Whether you’re new to the field or seasoned in practice, we invest in your development.
• Balance & Benefits: A 35-hour work week, generous PTO, full benefits, and hybrid flexibility because we value your wellbeing as much as the work.
• A Mission That Matters: Justice shouldn’t be a privilege. At NNLA, it’s a promise.

If you’re ready to put your skills to work where they’re needed most, and to be part of a team that’s equal parts passionate and professional, NNLA is where you belong.

Staff Attorney – Victim Advocacy (DV/Family Law Unit)

When someone’s safety is on the line, having the right advocate can change everything. Our Domestic Violence / Family Law Unit gives survivors a fighting chance in court—whether it’s securing protection orders, navigating custody, or standing up for stability at home. If you want your legal career to be about more than cases and filings, this is where the work gets real.

Job Description:
Staff Attorney – Victim Advocacy (DV/Family Law Unit)

Location: Northern Nevada Legal Aid – 401 Ryland Street, Suite #100, Reno, NV 89502
Position: Full-Time or Part-Time

Why Join Us?
If you’re ready to stand on the front lines of justice for survivors of domestic violence and families in crisis, this is where your passion meets purpose. At Northern Nevada Legal Aid, we’re not just practicing law we’re changing lives.

This role is about more than drafting pleadings or showing up in court. It’s about giving victims of violence and vulnerable families the legal protection and voice they deserve. Whether you’re just starting your legal career or you’re already licensed and looking for meaningful work, this is your chance to step into advocacy that truly matters.

About Us
Northern Nevada Legal Aid (NNLA), formerly Washoe Legal Services, has been a cornerstone of justice in our community since 1965. We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that ensures safety and stability for those who need it most. From survivors of domestic violence to children navigating custody disputes, to the elderly facing exploitation, we are their advocates, their defenders, and often their last line of hope.

In 2021 alone, we handled more than 8,800 legal matters across Northern Nevada. Every case is a chance to protect someone’s safety, restore stability, and ensure justice is more than a privilege for the few.

What You’ll Do

• Protect Survivors: Represent victims of domestic violence in protective order hearings, custody matters, and divorce proceedings to ensure their safety and stability.
• Client Advocacy: Build strong, confidential attorney-client relationships, providing trauma-informed counsel and walking clients through complex legal systems with compassion.
• Court Representation: Appear in family and civil courts on behalf of clients, drafting pleadings, motions, and settlement agreements that prioritize survivor safety and children’s well-being.
• Crisis Intervention: Be a responsive advocate in urgent situations, providing immediate legal guidance and taking swift action when safety is at risk.
• Collaboration: Partner with local shelters, social workers, law enforcement, and community organizations to build wraparound support for survivors.
• Systemic Advocacy: Contribute to community education and outreach, helping to strengthen laws, systems, and partnerships that protect victims and families long term.

Qualifications
We know not every path into this work looks the same, so if you’re passionate about victim advocacy and family law, we want to hear from you.

• Licensed member of the Nevada Bar, or licensed in another jurisdiction and eligible for Nevada admission.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive client relationships with empathy and professionalism.
• Strong time management able to balance multiple urgent cases.
• Previous experience in family law, domestic violence advocacy, or working with vulnerable populations is highly valued (but not required).
• Commitment to NNLA’s mission of serving low-income and at-risk communities.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary Range: $70,000-$80,000 (depending on experience)
• 12 paid holidays annually
• PTO accrual up to 24 days per year (with increased accrual after 2 years)
• 100% coverage of employee Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance; 75% coverage for dependents
• 401(k) with employer match
• Flexible Spending & Dependent Care Accounts
• Full-time, 35-hour work week
• Hybrid/remote work available with approval

Diversity Statement
Northern Nevada Legal Aid is an ADA/Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse team and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, especially those with lived experiences that connect to the communities we serve.

Northern Nevada Legal Aid is a nonprofit legal aid organization serving qualified residents in Washoe County, and rural northern Nevada counties. Legal aid is free or low-cost advice, assistance, or representation in civil matters for those who could not otherwise afford an attorney. We provide legal aid with the goal to eliminate barriers to access the legal system for our society’s most vulnerable members, to protect their rights, keep them safe, and provide stability. Legal aid also provides legal system efficiencies by decreasing self-represented litigants.

Company Description

Northern Nevada Legal Aid is a nonprofit legal aid organization serving qualified residents in Washoe County, and rural northern Nevada counties. Legal aid is free or low-cost advice, assistance, or representation in civil matters for those who could not otherwise afford an attorney. We provide legal aid with the goal to eliminate barriers to access the legal system for our society’s most vulnerable members, to protect their rights, keep them safe, and provide stability. Legal aid also provides legal system efficiencies by decreasing self-represented litigants.