Staff Attorney - Family Law

Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services (SMRLS), a non-profit law firm which provides free legal help to low-income individuals, is currently hiring a fulltime staff attorney for the Southwest Minnesota Region. SMRLS is looking for qualified candidates to provide a full range of high-quality legal services, in a respectful manner which enables our clients to enforce their legal rights.

This position is officed out of either SMRLS's Mankato or Worthington office. Remote work 3 days a week is allowable. Applicants with significant commutes needing a flexible remote work opportunity are encouraged to apply. SMRLS is an organization that qualifies for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

SMRLS is a client-centered organization looking for qualified candidates to provide a full range of high-quality legal services, in a respectful manner which enables our clients to enforce their legal rights consistent with our mission statement which can be found at https://www.smrls.org/about-us/mission/

As a non-profit law firm SMRLS receives federal, state, local, public, and private funding to provide free legal help to low income and elderly people. Started in 1909, we are Minnesota’s oldest legal aid program, with an established a tradition of partnership in providing access to justice with the private bar, a bi-partisan Legislature, the Minnesota Supreme Court and other Minnesota Legal Services Coalition programs.

RESPONSIBILITIES: With the assistance of a strong knowledgeable support staff the attorney in this position will provide representation and advice directly to clients assigned to the family law unit. The family law unit provides legal services in contested matters involving dissolution of marriage, custody, parenting time, and protection orders for victims.

Duties include client interviewing and counseling, drafting pleadings, discovery requests, and court appearances. Types of cases assigned will vary based upon client and firm needs. Applicant preferred case type will also be considered.

The staff attorney must be willing to maintain a caseload in compliance with SMRLS’ written practice standards, guiding principles, federal regulations, and other SMRLS Board policies in furtherance of SMRLS’ Mission. Some community education, outreach, and active bar participation are also expected.

QUALIFICATIONS

· Licensed to practice in Minnesota; those sitting for the bar exam will be considered.

· Two years of family law experience or other work in a legal setting is preferred. Applicants with less than two years of family law experience will be considered.

· Experience working in low-income communities, including victims of domestic abuse and individuals from other cultural backgrounds, or other demonstrated interest in working with low-income clients is preferred.

· Computer competence and proficiency with Microsoft products and zoom.

· Effective communication skills; ability to work constructively with others in a team and individual settings; good judgment; ability to learn quickly and work efficiently under pressure.

SALARY: The base salary, with no experience, is $80,010. Those with relevant experience are eligible for a higher salary depending on qualifications. SMRLS offers robust health insurance for employees and families and a generous paid time off (PTO) allowance.

STARTING DATE: As soon as practical. Position is open until filled.

TO APPLY: Apply online at https://www.smrls.org/about-us/job-opportunities/

Please submit your resume, a cover letter, list of three references, and a writing sample to:

Karla Kluzak, Family Law Attorney

SMRLS

12 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 3000

Mankato, MN 56001

You may also apply by email addressed to:

Karla Kluzak, Family Law Attorney at karla.kluzak@smrls.org

SMRLS IS COMMITTED TO EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL WORKERS, REGARDLESS OF RACE, GENDER, DISABILITY OR OTHER PROTECTED CLASS STATUS. SMRLS IS COMMITTED TO COMPLIANCE WITH ALL FEDERAL, STATE,

AND LOCAL ANTI-DISCRIMINATION LAWS AND REGULATIONS. ALL INTERESTED APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.

Pay: From $80,010.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Mankato, MN 56001

Salary : $80,010