Staff Attorney

Staff Attorney – Job Description

Position:               Staff Attorney

Reports To:          Supervising Attorney

Location:              Hybrid – combination of remote and in-office in Boston or Northampton                  

Summary:             The staff attorney will advocate for the rights and interests of individuals with disabilities. The attorney will provide representation in civil rights cases; investigate allegations of abuse and neglect; conduct monitoring of community residences and other facilities; and engage in advocacy to address human rights, discharge planning, community integration issues. 

Essential Functions:

DLC Staff Attorneys perform a wide range of duties, including the following:

·       Represent clients consistent with DLC’s case selection criteria; develop and implement case strategies; engage in litigation and negotiation in consultation with the Director of Litigation and/or the Director of Advocacy. 

·       Conduct in-person monitoring, and investigative activities in facilities and community settings, including psychiatric hospitals and other group living environments; conduct factual investigations into allegations of abuse and neglect of people with disabilities; develop and execute workplans to address incidents of abuse and neglect.

·       Attend in-person meetings with colleagues, clients, opposing parties, government officials and others.

·       Provide information and self-advocacy assistance to DLC clients and conduct training and outreach activities in the community.

·       Analyze statutes, regulations, agency policies/procedures and proposed legislation. 

·       Gather information from individuals with disabilities, family members and stakeholder groups to assist with policy analysis.

·       Cultivate and maintain relationships with subject area professionals and advocates, including state officials and agency staff, providers, and advocacy organizations.

·       Collaborate with Senior Attorneys, Supervising Attorneys, the Director of Advocacy, and the Director of Litigation in the development of systemic activities as appropriate, including impact litigation. 

·       In accordance with DLC policies and procedures, maintain: the security of confidential information and records; complete and accurate records documenting advocacy, monitoring, and investigation activities and time spent.

·       Be available to travel throughout Massachusetts to perform assigned job tasks.

·       Perform related tasks, consistent skills, and general responsibilities as required to support DLC’s mission, as assigned.

Qualifications:

·       Juris Doctorate and ability to practice law in Massachusetts (current MA bar admission or immediate ability to be admitted to MA bar required).

·       Practical legal experience, such as client counseling, appearances in court and administrative proceedings, legislative advocacy, and administrative advocacy.

 

Desired Attributes (not required):