What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Attorney position at Legal Aid of Nebraska?
Description
Staff Attorney
UNIT/PROGRAM:
FSLA STATUS: Exempt
REPORTS TO: Unit Director
Created/Updated: May 2025
Job Summary:
The Staff Attorney provides high-quality legal representation to Native Americans in Eastern Nebraska, with a focus on Native American survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking. This role involves evaluating and managing cases, advocating for clients in various legal settings, and contributing to community outreach and education. The Staff Attorney plays a critical role in achieving justice and stability for underserved populations while supporting and coordinating with fellow staff as needed.
Essential Functions:
Handles a case load: evaluates potential cases to determine acceptance and extent of representation; identifies and gathers other information to assist in determining case acceptance; formulates legal opinions and recommendations based on investigation, interviews and legal research; represents clients in all aspects of their cases, including, but not limited to preparation of pleadings, research, discovery, negotiations, settlement, litigation and appeal, if appropriate and approved; educates clients regarding their legal options and the consequences of each, as well as processes and procedures involved in representing the clients' interests. Case load to include litigation in tribal and state courts, and with a focus on representing Native American survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking.
- Client Evaluation and Intake
- Assess potential cases for acceptance and level of representation
- Identify and gather necessary information to evaluate legal claims
- Formulate legal opinions and make recommendations for case strategy based on investigations
- Client Advocacy and Legal Representation
- Interview clients to determine needs and gather relevant facts
- Educate clients on legal rights, options, and the implications of each course of action
- Clearly explain legal processes and procedures tailored to each client’s circumstances
- Represent clients through all phases of legal proceedings including:
- Preparation of pleadings and legal documents
- Legal research and case analysis
- Discovery and evidence collection
- Negotiations and settlement discussions
- Trial litigation and, if necessary, appellate advocacy
- Community Engagement and Legal Education
- Participate in outreach efforts to raise awareness of legal services
- Engage with partner organizations and community stakeholders to expand access to justice
- Team Collaboration and Support
- Provide guidance and support to legal staff and interns as needed
- Contribute to a collaborative team culture focused on mission-driven outcomes
Requirements
Required Skills/Abilities:
Basic Requirements:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
- Admitted to practice law in Nebraska, or ability to obtain admission within six months
- Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation for court and outreach work
Preferred Requirements:
- Experience working with low-income or vulnerable individuals
- One or more years of experience in civil legal practice
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent oral and written communication
- Proficiency in legal research tools and case management systems
- Ability to manage time effectively and handle a diverse caseload
- Demonstrated commitment to public interest or poverty law
- Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish or another language commonly spoken by client populations
Physical Requirements:
- Primarily office-based with general office conditions
- Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods and operate standard office equipment
- Ability to travel across the state as needed for client meetings, court appearances, and outreach events.
- Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.