Staff Attorney

Job Description

The Westside Justice Center is a community-centered organization that promotes a holistic

approach to justice by: 1) Facilitating legal literacy to reduce recidivism; 2) Providing legal and
quasi- legal assistance to individuals; and 3) Establishing and nurturing community trust
through participatory deliberations and restorative justice practices, to collaboratively mitigate
the consequences of incarceration on criminalized communities.

This is a full time position, combining direct representation of WJC clients, outreach and
educational duties for community members, and supporting organizing and advocacy.

Reports to: Program Manager, with supervision from Supervising Attorney

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

● Client Representation:
○ Providing legal representation, legal counsel, and referrals to eligible clients in a
wide range of areas, including: public benefits programs, employment, criminal
records relief, family, employment, housing and estate planning.
○ Coordinating on-site legal clinics and intakes;
○ Engaging, where appropriate, in impact litigation, administrative, and legislative
advocacy; and
○ Assisting in supervision and support of paralegals, interns, and volunteer
attorneys; and
○ Prepares periodic reports for internal and external purposes.

● Program Support:
○ Providing legal consultation and conducting research to assist problem-solving
around intakes and resolution of cases;
○ Recruiting, training, and supervising volunteer attorneys as needed;
○ Liaising with partner organizations and providing occasional trainings or
outreach presentations; and
○ Planning, implementing, and documenting outreach and training programs.

● Other Duties:
○ Builds and sustains relationships with colleagues with leaders, actors and
organizations in relevant fields, including the public and commercial sectors;

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 ○ Represents the Westside Justice Center at conferences and other public events,
including as a speaker or panel participant;
○ Assists with advocacy and fundraising efforts as needed; and
○ Performs other duties as assigned

Skills​:
● Licensed to practice law in Illinois or eligibility to become licensed;
● Excellent client interviewing and communications skills, including the ability to
compassionately and effectively explain complex legal situations to people in crisis;
● Ability to prioritize work, strong project management skills, and ability to work
collaboratively in a fast-paced, self-directed environment;
● Strong organizational abilities including planning, delegating, program development and
task facilitation;
● Communicates clearly and effectively, both in writing and orally; and
● Strong public speaking ability;
● Excellent interpersonal, public speaking and organizational skills.
● Proficient in Microsoft Office, Word, Access and Excel,

Application Process​:
Please send your resume,a detailed cover letter explaining your interest in the position, a
writing sample and contact information of 3 references to ​admin@westsidejustice.org​, and
note the position you’re applying for in the subject line. Applications will be accepted and
reviewed on a rolling basis.
Start Date​: As soon as possible

The Westside Justice Center is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. People of color,
women, LGBTQI-GNC people, and formerly incarcerated people are strongly encouraged to
apply.

Commensurate with experience and other qualifications.

2 Rev. 10.10.19