October 3, 2024
Staff Attorneys: Re-Entry (Western Mass)
Greenfield or Springfield, MA
Community Legal Aid (CLA) is the non-profit legal services program providing free civil legal assistance to low-income and elderly residents of central and western Massachusetts. CLA has over 160 dedicated, talented staff working across multiple offices. Our core work includes effective client-centered advocacy and partnerships with our client communities.
CLA seeks attorneys to help formerly incarcerated individuals overcome the legal barriers that impede their successful re-entry into society. The attorneys will assist individuals with sealing, expunging, or correcting their Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI). The attorneys will also assist individuals with overcoming the barriers to employment and housing posed by their criminal records, including representation before administrative agencies and in court. In addition to representing individual clients, the attorneys will engage in community outreach and education and will work closely with community partners. The attorneys will be based in CLA’s offices in Greenfield, and/or Springfield.
QUALIFICATIONS: Law students currently in their third year of law school, recent law school graduates, and more experienced attorneys are eligible to apply. Prior experience in CORI/re-entry work and housing work preferred. Excellent organizational, communication, writing, and decision-making skills. Track record of working with community partners and effectively conducting community trainings. Committed to serving the needs of a diverse client base.
COMPENSATION: The starting salary for this position is $71,500, which is based on a union scale and adjusted upward depending on experience. CLA offers a very generous benefits package that includes 401(k) with employer-paid contribution; low-cost health insurance (medical, dental, and vision) for employees and their dependents; malpractice insurance; paid leave (4 weeks vacation, 3 personal days, 12 sick days, and 13 holidays); law school loan repayment assistance; and relocation stipend. CLA has a hybrid work environment and requires advocates to work in their assigned office at least three days per week.
APPLICATION PROCESS: Please submit your resume and cover letter online here. Alternatively, you can submit your application to iliu@cla-ma.org or mail to Ingrid Liu, Recruitment Coordinator, Community Legal Aid, 370 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608. The cover letter should specify which office(s) the applicant is willing to work in.
CLA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to ensure that our staff members reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. CLA encourages applicants from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences.
