Staff Attorney (Housing Rights) (West Palm Beach)

The Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County (LASPBC) is a non-profit charitable law firm dedicated to ensuring equal access to the justice system for the low-income, disadvantaged and traditionally underserved residents of Palm Beach County and surrounding areas.

We are currently seeking a strong attorney to provide a full-range of high-quality legal representation and advocacy to low-income residents of Palm Beach County for our Housing Rights program, thereby promoting housing stability, prevent homelessness, and enforce fair and equitable housing rights.

JOB SUMMARY

The Housing Rights Staff Attorney handles cases involving landlord-tenant disputes, federally subsidized housing programs, evictions, and fair housing discrimination matters. This position also offers opportunities to engage in community education and systemic advocacy in partnership with local agencies and community groups.

The Housing Rights Staff Attorney reports directly to the Supervising Attorney and works under general supervision. Work schedule is as follows: generally, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with occasional to regular evening, weekend, and/or holiday work, as needed to support clients effectively. Travel throughout Palm Beach County may be required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide direct legal representation to clients in administrative, judicial, and appellate proceedings involving eviction defense, federal housing subsidy termination, housing discrimination, and other housing-related matters.
• Develop and maintain specialized expertise in housing law, including:
• Eviction defense under Florida law
• Federal and subsidized housing programs, such as Public Housing, Section 8/Housing Choice Vouchers, HUD-subsidized properties, and Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) developments
• Conduct thorough client interviews in person, at outreach locations, or through virtual platforms.
• Investigate and develop cases by interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents, and consulting with appropriate agencies and experts.
• Provide advice, counsel, and negotiation services to help clients maintain stable housing and avoid displacement.
• Draft legal pleadings, motions, memoranda, and correspondence.
• Manage case files, grant deliverables, and reporting requirements in accordance with program standards.
• Perform legal research and remain informed about developments in federal and state housing law.
• Maintain accurate records and timekeeping through the case management system (Legal Server).
• Collaborate with Legal Aid Society colleagues, social service providers, community organizations, and the private bar to identify and address housing issues in the community.
• Conduct and participate in community legal education presentations, outreach clinics, and workshops to inform tenants and service providers about their rights and available resources.
• Participate in community and coalition meetings, task forces, or other forums addressing housing instability and homelessness prevention.
• Comply with all organizational policies, procedures, and performance standards.
• Assist the Executive Director and/or Supervising Attorney with special projects or assignments as needed.

SUPERVISION

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities, but oversees the work of support staff members.

POSITION RELATIONSHIPS

The position requires frequent collaborative interaction with staff attorneys, paralegals, and administrative staff, as well as regular contact with clients, community partners, and local housing stakeholders.

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with The Florida Bar.
• Two (2) years of public interest legal experience, preferably with a focus on housing, landlord-tenant matters, or poverty law practice.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of Federal and Florida landlord-tenant law, fair housing law, and federally subsidized housing programs preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, public speaking, and communication skills (verbal and written).
• Good judgment and organization, with the ability to work independently and responsibly.
• Willingness to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Desired Attributes

• Commitment to serving low-income and underserved communities.
• Dependability, initiative, motivation, and demonstrated concern for the interests of clients.
• High ethical standards and professionalism.

WORK SCHEDULE AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must pass background screening and internal conflict check.
• Must maintain reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Must work the schedule necessary to perform assigned responsibilities and meet operational deadlines.
• Occasional evening and/or weekend work may be required based on business needs.
• Regular local and limited out-of-area travel may be required.
• Valid Florida driver's license with satisfactory driving record.
• Reliable vehicle with eligibility for coverage under any applicable agency insurance.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

• Regular use of computers, office technology, and virtual communication platforms to perform essential job functions, including typing.
• Frequent writing, reading, hearing, and speaking verbal communication.
• Long periods of sitting, regular standing and walking, occasional pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, stooping, squatting, and safely lifting, carrying, or moving up office materials of up to 15 lbs.

COMPENSATION PACKAGE

Our Total Rewards Philosophy

At the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, we are committed to providing a competitive and rewarding total compensation package that goes beyond salary, combining excellent benefits that include generous paid leave, retirement savings opportunities, wellness support, professional development opportunities, and additional perks designed to attract and retain exceptional professionals committed to advancing the organization's mission, while promoting financial security, work-life balance, and career advancement—because we believe investing in our people is essential to fulfilling our mission. Salary is commensurate with experience, education, and internal equity.

Salary Range

Competitive salary of $75k - $78k per year, depending on qualifications.

This is a grant-funded position. Continued employment is contingent upon the availability of funding and the ongoing needs of the program.

Additional Benefits

• Vacation leave earnings equal 2.4 weeks per year (beginning the first of the month after 30 days of employment) and increases to 3 weeks per year after two years of employment.
• Sick leave earnings equal 2.4 weeks per year (beginning the first of the month after 30 days of employment).
• 13-15 paid holidays per year (depending on court schedule).
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance (beginning first of the month after 30 days of employment).
• Employer paid short-term disability/long-term disability and life insurance (beginning first of the month after 30 days of employment).
• Employer matches up to 5% of 401K plan contribution (eligible after one year of service).
• Salary paid bi-weekly by direct deposit.
• Mileage and reimbursements processed weekly.
• Law school student loan repayment assistance for eligible individuals.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility based on current Federal guidelines.
• Many other rewards include work-life balance, employee engagement activities, professional development opportunities and an exceptional work culture!

OUR COMMITMENT

The Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County is committed to fostering a workplace where integrity, respect, inclusion, collaboration, and service define our culture.

We value diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives and seek those who demonstrate empathy, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to serving our community with excellence.

APPLICATION PROCESS

To express interest in joining our great team, please send your resume and cover letter with salary requirements to View email address on apply.placed-app.com.

The Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EOE ADA.