Staff Attorney, Reentry Justice Project

Legal Aid Society Of The District Of Columbia • Washington, DC

413d • $71,054 - $85,852

About The Position

Legal Aid DC is seeking a Staff Attorney for its Reentry Justice Project within the Systemic Advocacy and Law Reform Program. The role focuses on providing legal assistance to individuals impacted by the criminal legal system, particularly in areas related to criminal record relief and reentry support. The attorney will engage in advocacy, community outreach, and collaboration with various stakeholders to promote systemic reform and support clients in overcoming barriers to successful reintegration.

Requirements

• Membership or eligibility for membership in the DC bar.
• Knowledge of criminal law and procedure.
• Experience in delinquency, criminal defense, or direct civil legal service representation.
• Familiarity with legal services and community organizations in DC.
• Commitment to supporting individuals impacted by the legal system.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with teams.
• Bilingual skills in Spanish, Amharic, or another prevalent language are preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with social service agencies and community-based organizations.
• Commitment to racial, social, and economic justice.
• Cultural competence and sensitivity.

Responsibilities

• Maintain an active caseload of criminal record relief matters, including filing motions to seal or expunge records under relevant laws.
• Engage in advocacy efforts to address collateral consequences of legal system involvement, such as housing denials and job barriers.
• Work with clients and community groups to identify obstacles to successful reentry and support law reform efforts.
• Collaborate with the Systemic Advocacy Program team on reentry issues and engage in appeals or policy advocacy.
• Mentor pro bono attorneys handling criminal record relief matters.
• Identify outreach opportunities and partner with community organizations to provide legal services.
• Facilitate Know Your Rights trainings and develop educational materials for community engagement.
• Provide practical information on the reentry process and maintain accessible self-help materials for litigants.
• Conduct new client intakes across all practice areas at community-based offices.

Benefits

• Paid holidays
• Health insurance
• Annual retirement match
• 20 days of annual leave per year
• 15 days of sick leave per year

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: No Education Listed