Temporary staff attorney position (Bridgeport or Stamford, CT)

Connecticut Legal Services, Inc. (CLS) seeks skilled and committed attorneys to fill two temporary staff attorney positions, up to 19 hours per week, in its Family Unit Restraining Order Project. Attorneys shall staff one of two CLS court offices, located in either Bridgeport or Stamford Superior Court, and provide holistic, client-centered legal advocacy for domestic violence survivors seeking court protection.

This position works directly with and is provided ongoing support from the CLS Restraining Order Project Supervising Attorney. The attorney will provide assistance to victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault or other crimes in completing applications for Ex Parte Temporary Restraining Orders; advise self-represented parties as they navigate the court restraining order process and, when appropriate, provide legal representation at court hearings. Training on the application process, ancillary issues, and representing trauma victims in restraining order court hearings will be provided. Applicants also receive training on screening prospective clients and other CLS’ internal procedures, and will participate in local CLS office meetings, statewide trainings and unit meetings.

START DATE: ASAP

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Deep and demonstrated commitment to advocacy on behalf of low-income, vulnerable, and marginalized communities, and to CLS’ mission, vision, goals, and values;
• Minimum two years’ experience in the practice of family law or domestic violence advocacy;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to write persuasively and clearly and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations;
• Demonstrated ability both to collaborate closely with colleagues and to work independently when necessary;
• Creativity and flexibility in solving problems and meeting challenges;
• Connecticut Bar admission or passed the Connecticut Bar Exam and willingness to be sworn in immediately; and
• Knowledge and experience in Connecticut court practice.

COMPENSATION: Hourly rate: $29.50 - $57.97, depending on experience

APPLICATION: Applicants should send a cover letter clearly describing their qualifications, resume, 3-7-page original writing sample, and the names and contact information for three references to applications@ctlegal.org. CLS invites all applicants to include in their cover letter a statement about how your unique background and/or experiences might contribute to the diversity, cultural vitality, and perspective of our staff and legal services practice. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will be accepted until the position is filled. In order to expedite the internal sorting and reviewing process, please type your name (Last, First) and “Attorney Application” as the only contents in the subject line of your e-mail.

ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION: CLS is Connecticut’s largest non-profit law firm, providing free legal help to low-income people in areas of law including housing, consumer, elder, family, public benefits, education, immigration, employment, and disability. With a staff of 75 in seven offices across Connecticut, CLS fights for equal justice and improved life opportunities for more than 12,000 people every year.

Connecticut Legal Services is an equal opportunity employer and contractor. We proudly value diversity and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $29.50 - $57.97 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 19 per week

Work Location: In person