Temporary Staff Attorney

Description

Part-Time 20-30 hours/week, Temporary 09/2026-01/2027
Staff Attorney- Special Projects

Job Summary 

Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, Inc., a non-profit law firm that provides free legal assistance to people living with low income/low opportunity, seeks a part-time temporary Staff Attorney to work 20-30 hours in its Special Projects program. The Special Projects program provides legal advice, advocacy, and representation to low-income individuals living with HIV in the St. Louis metropolitan area who receive Ryan White-funded health and supportive services.

Responsibilities

· Conducting client interviews, investigation, fact gathering, and case assessment;

· Handling civil legal matters involving housing, consumer issues, public benefits, Social Security Disability, Medicaid, SNAP, advance directives, powers of attorney, and permanency planning for parents with minor children;

· Drafting pleadings, correspondence, legal memoranda, and other case-related documents;

· Conducting legal research and analysis;

· Representing clients in state and federal civil litigation, administrative hearings, and other proceedings as appropriate;

· Advocating on systemic legal issues that adversely affect the health and well-being of low-income individuals living with HIV;

· Conducting community outreach, education, and presentations regarding legal issues affecting people living with HIV;

· Providing training and education to social service providers, health care providers, and other community partners to support appropriate referrals and identification of legal needs;

· Working collaboratively with other Legal Services programs, health care providers, social service organizations, and community partners; and

· Other work as assigned or taken on.

Requirements

· JD and admitted to practice in Missouri

· At least 2 years of experience as a practicing attorney preferred, but not required

· Experience with Social Security Disability strongly preferred, Housing experience a plus

· Demonstrated commitment to public interest law work or to legal services for the poor strongly preferred

· Strong litigation and advocacy skills

· Ability to relate well and work with low-income clients and collaborate with community stakeholders

· Strong communication skills, work ethic, flexibility and teamwork

· Strong organizational skills

· Knowledgeable in Microsoft Office

· Familiarity with case management software preferred

· Open to creative and innovative ways of fulfilling the legal aid mission

What we do
LSEM advances justice through legal representation, education, and supportive services. We partner with the community to improve lives, promote fairness, and create opportunities for those in need. Since 1956, LSEM has provided high-quality civil legal assistance and equal access to justice for low-income people in 21 counties in Missouri. We accomplish our mission through systemic advocacy/impact litigation and individual case work in a wide range of substantive civil areas which are in our priorities, e.g., family law for victims of domestic violence, prevention of homelessness/housing, health, public benefits, consumer, education, disability, community economic development, and immigration. As part of our community education/outreach efforts, LSEM works with over 150 agencies and participates in over 35 task forces/coalitions and has a vibrant Volunteer Lawyers Program.

Who we are
At Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, we embrace a culture that celebrates and promotes the many backgrounds, heritages, and perspectives of our colleagues and clients. We seek to hire individuals from a variety of backgrounds, who are professional, collaborative, and creative thinkers with a passion for our mission, and create an environment where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from all qualified individuals and will make employment decisions based on merit.

How to Apply
Upload your resume and cover letter through our online application. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
 

Salary & Benefits Information
The pay range for this position is $31.73 - $47.60 per hour. The specific hourly rate offered to a candidate will be determined by years of relevant experience. This temporary position is not eligible for benefits.
 

Submission Deadline 

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
 

Equal access to Legal Services of Eastern Missouri’s office is available. Those applicants requiring accommodation to the interview/application process should contact Human Resources at the e-mail [email protected]. Legal Services of Eastern Missouri is an equal opportunity employer.