Central Minnesota Legal Services: Full-Time Staff Attorney position available in the Minneapolis office.
Background: CMLS is a nonprofit law firm providing free legal representation to clients with low income in 21 counties in central Minnesota. The Minneapolis office serves Anoka and Hennepin Counties. Our mission is to advocate for access to the civil justice system for individuals with low income by providing high quality legal services, and to improve the lives of people living in poverty by empowering self-advocacy skills through legal education.
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 attorney will focus primarily on family law, with expansion into a secondary practice area within CMLS priorities. This position will involve regular litigation, primarily in family court. The attorney hired will provide representation to clients referred from other partner organizations for assistance with domestic violence civil litigation.
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 diversity, equity, and inclusion 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.
Application Deadline: June 28, 2024, or until filled.
Starting Date: Negotiable
Application: Send cover letter, resume, references, and writing sample to:
Hiring Committee
Central Minnesota Legal Services
111 North Fifth Street, Suite 402
Minneapolis, MN 55403-1604
Email applications: [email protected]
No Phone Calls Please