What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Attorney - St. Cloud position at Central Minnesota Legal Services?
Central Minnesota Legal Services: Full-Time Staff Attorney position available in the Saint Cloud office.
Background: CMLS is a four-office nonprofit law firm providing free legal representation to low-income clients in 21 counties throughout central Minnesota. CMLS’ mission is to increase access to justice by providing high quality legal services to individuals experiencing poverty, challenging inequities, and empowering community members to participate in our civil legal system. The position will be in the St. Cloud office, serving Itasca, Chisago, Mille Lacs, Sherburne, Benton, Stearns, Morrison, Todd, and Wright counties.
CMLS is funded primarily by a grant from the Legal Services Corporation. CMLS also has other funding sources to provide civil legal services to other low-income populations in its service area. CMLS enjoys a good rapport with, and strong support from, the organized bar and the local judiciary.
Responsibilities: The position will focus primarily on family law, with expansion into a secondary practice areas within CMLS priorities. This position will involve regular litigation, primarily in family court but could include administrative hearings and appeals. The attorney will also partner with local supportive organizations to administer advice clinics. The office has a commitment to service work, including community legal education and community outreach. These activities may take place in-person or remotely. Travel may be required throughout the nine counties served by the St. Cloud office of CMLS.
Qualifications: Demonstrated commitment and sensitivity to the problems of marginalized communities and individuals experiencing poverty. Prior experience with family law preferred. Poverty law litigation experience or law school clinical experience is a plus. Candidates should be licensed to practice law in Minnesota or be a candidate for Bar admission. Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle required. Ability to speak a second language, particularly Spanish or Somali, is a plus.
Demonstrated commitment to furthering principles of inclusion and belonging, and ability to work effectively with people from different backgrounds are essential. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, and communities to apply. We welcome information about how your experience can contribute to serving our diverse client community. Must have strong communication skills, ability to work constructively in a team setting, exhibit good judgment, ability to learn quickly and work independently, and be able to effectively handle contested hearings.
Salary & Benefits: Starting at $80,002, D.O.E. pursuant to the CMLS salary schedule. Excellent benefits including medical and dental insurance, 403(b) match, pre-tax flexible spending accounts for health care, dependent care, and commute, generous vacation and sick leave. Remote work is available in a hybrid weekly schedule. 33.75-hour work week.
Starting Date: Negotiable.
Application: Apply online at https://www.centralmnlegal.org/about/employment/. Application requires a letter of interest, resume, and references. Applications will be considered as they are received. Preference for those that apply by April 30, 2026, but will accept applications until position is filled.
No Phone Calls Please
Central Minnesota Legal Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer