Supervising Attorney, Housing Advocacy and Litigation Clinic

Rising For Justice (RFJ) invites applications for a full-time supervising attorney for clinical teaching and tenant advocacy as part of RFJ’s Housing Advocacy and Litigation Clinic (“HALC”). Reporting to RFJ’s Director of HALC, the supervising attorney is part of a dynamic interdisciplinary team that provides clinical education and case supervision to law students from DC area law schools enrolled in the clinic as well as direct legal representation to DC’s low-income tenants in jeopardy of eviction.

Responsibilities:
• In consultation with the HALC Director, plan and teach classes in lawyering and advocacy skills, substantive housing law, civil procedure, ethics and professionalism, and systemic advocacy;
• Supervise second- and third-year law students in the representation of clients in housing matters that range from same-day legal services to extended representation;
• Evaluate student progress and completion of assignments;
• Plan and participate in community presentations, including Know-Your-Rights trainings and other community outreach events;
• Provide direct client representation as necessary and between semesters;
• Serve as a liaison to area law schools in consultation with RFJ management;
• Work in tandem with other RFJ advocacy units to achieve the best outcomes for clients;
• Participate in student recruitment activities and organizational resource development opportunities; and
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
• Must be a member of the DC Bar (preferred) or eligible to waive into the DC Bar.
• At least three years of prior litigation experience as a practicing attorney.
• A strong work ethic and excellent communication and organizational skills.
• A client-centered approach to advocacy and a passion for teaching and mentoring law students.
• Clinical education experience or other teaching and supervisory experience preferred.
• Spanish language skills and previous experience advocating for low-income persons desirable.

Salary and Benefits:
RFJ salaries are set on a scale based on years of experience. The scale for this position is $70,967 to $101,182 annually. RFJ offers an excellent benefits package, including employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance; generous sick, annual, and personal leave; life and disability insurance; and paid federal and local holidays. RFJ offers a hybrid work environment with three days in-office work.

To Apply:
Candidates should submit a cover letter and resume by email addressed to Linda Brooks, Director of Human Resources, at [email protected]. Please indicate “HALC Supervising Attorney, [your full name]” in the subject line of the email. Finalists will be asked to submit writing samples and professional references.

Application Deadline:
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

About Rising For Justice:
Created in 1969, RFJ, formerly known as DC Law Students in Court, is the oldest clinical teaching program in the District of Columbia. RFJ operates as a public interest legal services provider and clinical education program for law and social work graduate students and serves more than 4,000 clients per year. Much of RFJ’s work focuses on fighting eviction and displacement on behalf of low-income tenants in the District of Columbia. In addition, RFJ represents justice-involved DC residents in need of a fresh start by clearing their criminal records and individuals seeking family stability.

RFJ’s mission is to leverage the collective forces of students and experienced advocates to achieve justice for all. The organization embraces equal justice and diversity as core values and strives to maintain a workplace that is vibrant, welcoming, innovative, and collaborative. RFJ is committed to fostering the thoughtful exchange of ideas and to ensuring that all voices are heard and respected. Its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and non-discrimination includes race, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, personal appearance, genetic information, political affiliation, marital status, family responsibilities, disability, status as a veteran, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law or regulation.