Employment Opportunities at CLASI

POSITION TITLE:  Disabilities Law Program (DLP) Staff Attorney, Full-time

LOCATION:  Delaware Statewide Responsibilities – Home office in Wilmington, Dover, or Georgetown (*CLASI is currently a hybrid virtual and in person work environment*)

REPORTS TO:  DLP Management

SALARY:  Depending on experience; excellent benefits. (Details on salary and benefits can be found at the bottom of this page.)

POSTING DATE:  September 4, 2024

CONTEXT OF POSITION: The Disabilities Law Program (DLP) of Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI) provides free legal representation to children and adults with physical and mental disabilities to protect them from abuse and neglect and to advocate for their legal rights in both facilities and the community (e.g., civil rights, educational services, medical services, housing, government benefits, treatment in the least restrictive environment). The DLP serves as Delaware’s Protection and Advocacy System for People with Disabilities (“P&A”). For more information about what a P&A is, see: https://youtu.be/m3vYxSe3s4M.

DLP staff attorneys work primarily under the direction of DLP management to serve individuals with mental and/or physical disabilities experiencing abuse, neglect, or violations of their rights.  The attorney will be expected to engage in individual case litigation in courts and administrative agencies, legislative and regulatory advocacy, and impact litigation.  Typical issues addressed by DLP attorneys include ADA access claims, fair housing cases; government benefits appeals (Medicaid, Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income, and others); and special education.  In addition, some DLP attorneys work on our Delaware Public Education Ombudsperson Program, which is not restricted to individuals with disabilities.  This program assists Delaware public education students and families with educational disputes, disparate discipline, or discrimination based on protected characteristics.

As the P&A, the DLP also conducts monitoring of facilities that provide services to people with disabilities and conducts abuse/neglect investigations when we have probable cause to believe such mistreatment has occurred at such facilities.  DLP staff attorneys may be asked to oversee an advocate conducting this work, or to conduct the work directly.  Investigations may result in reports to bodies that have oversight authority over the facility, or in some cases, public reports.  Finally, all DLP staff are expected to conduct community legal education workshops or otherwise participate at community events.  Depending on interest and workload, staff attorneys may participate on external committees and councils as assigned by DLP management.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
1.  Provide direct legal services to clients.

2.  Provide or assist with systemic advocacy including administrative, legislative advocacy and impact litigation services as such matters arise and dependent on experience level.

3.  Supervise and collaborate with advocates/paralegals.

4.  Prepare articles, research memos and conduct community legal education programs and self-advocacy training.

5.  Assist in drafting and analyzing legislation, regulations and policies.

6.  Assist or conduct DLP monitoring and investigations of facilities.

7.  Serve on external committees, councils and task forces as assigned by management.

8.  Travel throughout Delaware as needed to complete job responsibilities.

9.  Attend conferences and trainings, including out of state travel, keeping abreast of community conditions and relevant laws, policies and regulations.

10.  Other duties as assigned by management, depending on funding and needs.

QUALIFICATIONS*:

Required qualifications: 

1. If not yet admitted to the Delaware bar, the applicant must be eligible for and register to take the next scheduled Delaware Bar Examination for which you are eligible.

2.  Interest in and sensitivity to the needs of individuals with disabilities.

3.  Good organizational skills and initiative, and interest in engaging a broad range of advocacy skills, including litigation.

4.  Willingness and ability to perform some duties in institutional settings, including prisons.

5.  Must exhibit patience, tact, and respect when dealing with the public, clients, and staff.

6.  Must be flexible since priorities and areas of emphasis may change depending on our funding and client needs.

7.  Must be willing to submit to required federal clearances and other background checks as required by funding sources and/or CLASI.

8.  Two-year commitment required.

Qualifications that are not mandatory but are a plus:

1.  Legal Services/P & A or other social justice experience.

2.  Knowledge of disability rights laws.

3.  Ability to communicate in ASL, Spanish, or Haitian Creole.

*A note about qualifications: Studies have shown that some individuals are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. We may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

CLASI strongly encourages interested candidates with diverse backgrounds to apply, including people of color, women, people who identify as LGBTQ+, veterans, people with disabilities, and persons from other underrepresented groups. CLASI is an equal opportunity employer and committed to building a culturally diverse and inclusive workplace. Candidates are encouraged to share with us how they will add to our diversity.

CLASI is unionized and members of the bargaining unit (attorneys and advocates) are represented by Delaware Legal Aid Workers, NOLSW/UAW Local 2320. More information about CLASI can be found at www.declasi.org. This position will be in the bargaining unit. CLASI’s salary scale is available at the bottom of this page (www.declasi.org/employment).

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: To apply, send resume and cover letter to Marissa L. Band, Esq., DLP Project Director, at mband@declasi.org

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

POSITION TITLE: Human Resources Manager

LOCATION: Any one of the three CLASI offices

REPORTS TO: CLASI Chief Administrative & Financial Officer (CAFO)

SALARY: Dependent on experience. (The base salary for this position is $53,614, and will increase based on years of relevant experience according to CLASI’s salary scale. Details on the salary scale and employee benefits package can be found at the bottom of this page.)

POSTING DATE: August 30, 2024

CONTEXT OF POSITION: Since 1946, CLASI has been a part of the Delaware community, with a mission of providing equal access to justice for vulnerable and underserved Delawareans. With recent and projected organizational growth, CLASI seeks to support its strength and mission by expanding and formalizing its existing HR structure with the newly created position of Human Resources Manager. Day-to-day responsibilities will require a combination of implementing an HR vision with hands-on performance of the HR responsibilities.

The HR Manager will plan, develop, lead, facilitate, and coordinate CLASI’s HR policies, helping to ensure legal compliance and implementation of CLASI’s mission and strategic plan. CLASI operates in a collaborative environment, and the HR Manager will work with CLASI management and staff in this way, continuing to build upon and further strengthen the organizational culture.

Duties include HR compliance, HR policy management, benefits administration, recruitment and retention, employee onboarding and offboarding, employee relations, and advising the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee (as a non-voting member).

CLASI permits remote work up to two days per week during the first six months of employment, and up to three days per week after the first six months. The HR Manager’s primary office may be in any of CLASI’s three offices. Travel between offices across the state will be necessary.

DUTIES:

1. Oversee HR policy drafting, organization, and implementation.
2. Oversee and administer HR programs including, but not limited to, compensation, benefits, and leave; disciplinary matters; disputes and investigations; performance and productivity; occupational health and safety; and training and development.
3. In collaboration with CLASI management, develop strategies for and coordinate activities related to recruitment/retention, hiring, onboarding, and offboarding.
4. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, rules, and policies related to human resources, employment policies, and other personnel management concerns.
5. In collaboration with the Benefits Committee, coordinate benefits administration with CLASI’s third-party benefits brokers.
6. In collaboration with CLASI management, coordinate and implement training for new and existing staff.
7. Coordinate, support, and oversee the employee performance evaluations and supervision plan process.
8. Fulfill any other personnel-related duties including overseeing the office assignment policy across CLASI’s three locations, among other items.
9. Other responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. A commitment to supporting CLASI’s mission of advocating for the rights of marginalized individuals and communities.
2. A commitment to preserving and advancing CLASI’s employment culture and to support the sustained advancement of CLASI’s mission. CLASI prides itself on a progressive employment culture and fosters an egalitarian, supportive, trauma-informed, and kind workplace.
3. A collaborative and responsive approach to colleagues is required. 4. Knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations.
4. A bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Social Services, or related field.
5. At least five years of Human Resources management experience.
6. Experience with and commitment to principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
7. Management experience including supervision of other staff and programs is preferred.
8. The ability to communicate in Spanish as a second language is preferred.
9. Experience with unions, collective bargaining agreements, and grievance procedures is preferred.
10. Experience in civil legal aid or other public interest law organization is preferred.
11. Must be able and willing to travel statewide as needed.

CLASI strongly encourages all interested candidates to apply, including those with lived experience with marginalization and diverse backgrounds, including people of color, women, people who identify as LGBTQ+, veterans, people with disabilities, and persons from other underrepresented groups. CLASI is an equal opportunity employer and committed to building a culturally diverse and inclusive workplace.

TO APPLY: Please email your cover letter and resume to Jim Hamilton, at jhamilton@declasi.org

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

POSITION TITLE:  Housing Paralegal; Housing Unit – Full-time (35 hours/week)

LOCATION:  Delaware Statewide Responsibilities – Home office in Wilmington, Dover, or Georgetown

REPORTS TO:  Managing Attorney

SALARY:  Depending on experience; excellent benefits. (Details on salary scale and benefits can be found at the bottom of this page.)

DATE OF POSTING:  July 9, 2024

CONTEXT OF POSITION:  Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (“CLASI”) provides free legal representation to people with disabilities, people age 60 or over, people with low incomes, and victims of crime and discrimination to help our clients obtain shelter, government benefits, educational services, medical services, orders of protection from abuse, legal immigration status, and other civil legal remedies. This position will have a particular focus on helping clients facing eviction to get access to legal services and community resources.

Under the supervision of the Managing Attorney in the Housing Unit, the Housing Paralegal will assist clients statewide. The Housing Paralegal will be responsible for intake, client interviews, document requests and case file management duties, as well as providing administrative and other support to attorneys. The Housing Paralegal will work on eviction defense and housing discrimination cases. The Housing Paralegal will connect clients with community resources and social services.

The applicant for this position must be able to interact effectively with and be sensitive to the special needs of CLASI clients, including older adults, individuals with physical and mental disabilities, people with low incomes, and people with limited English proficiency.

DUTIES:

1. Conduct intake and interview clients; conduct factual investigations; conduct preliminary merit assessments.
2. Under supervision of attorneys, request documents relevant to the provision of legal services.
3. Under supervision of attorneys, draft correspondence and other documents.
4. Provide litigation support to attorneys including, but not limited to: discovery, file maintenance, redacting, gathering and organizing evidence, completing forms and filing documents.
5. Provide administrative support to attorneys.
6. Manage and organize client information using forms and computerized data system.
7. Research and provide referrals to community resources and social services.
8. Provide relevant assistance to clients seeking affordable housing.
9. Travel as directed to see clients and participate in work-related activities, including outreach events and presentations that occur at night or on weekends, as needed.
10. Become and remain well-informed regarding basic legal principles applicable to area(s) of practice.
11. If fluent in another language, interpret and/or translate documents for other CLASI staff, as needed.
12. Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
2. Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish, both orally and in writing, strongly preferred, but not required.
3. College degree or Paralegal Certificate preferred.
4. Commitment to working with marginalized populations and sensitivity to their needs.
5. Ability and willingness to make effective public presentations.
6. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
7. Ability to travel across the state and work evenings and weekends occasionally for out-of-office training sessions, agency-related meetings, and community education presentations.
8. Strong computer skills, including ability to use Microsoft Word, Outlook, etc.
9. Ability to handle multiple projects and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
10. Ability to work both independently and in collaboration with others.
11. Flexibility, including willingness to work in any of CLASI’s areas of practice as needed.

CLASI strongly encourages interested candidates with diverse backgrounds to apply, including people of color, women, people who identify as LGBTQ, veterans, people with disabilities, and persons from other underrepresented groups. CLASI is an equal opportunity employer and committed to building a culturally diverse and inclusive workplace. Candidates are encouraged to share with us how they will add to our diversity.

CLASI is unionized and members of the bargaining unit (attorneys and advocates) are represented by Delaware Legal Aid Workers, NOLSW/UAW Local 2320. This position will be in the bargaining unit. CLASI’s salary scale is available at the bottom of this page. More information about CLASI can be found at www.declasi.org.

TO APPLY:  Please email resume, cover letter, and writing sample to Sarah Rhine at SRhine@declasi.org.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

POSITION TITLE: Legal Director, Disabilities Law Program (DLP)

LOCATION: Any one of the three CLASI offices

REPORTS TO: DLP Project Director

SALARY: Depending on experience, plus management bump (this is considered a Managing Attorney position); excellent benefits. (Details on salary and benefits can be found at the bottom of this page.)

POSTING DATE: August 14, 2023

DEADLINE: Until filled

CONTEXT OF POSITION: The Disabilities Law Program (“DLP”) provides free legal representation to children and adults with physical and mental disabilities to protect them from abuse and neglect and to advocate for their legal rights in the community (e.g., civil rights, educational services, medical services, housing, government benefits, treatment in the least restrictive environment). The DLP serves as Delaware’s Protection and Advocacy System for People with Disabilities (“P&A”). For more information about what a P&A is, see: https://youtu.be/m3vYxSe3s4M.

The Legal Director of the DLP will provide advocacy leadership/coordination, legal supervision, and co-counsel support within the program. The Legal Director will supervise and coordinate the legal advocacy of attorney and advocacy staff working in the DLP throughout the state. The Legal Director will promote an appropriate mix of advocacy (e.g. litigation in judicial and administrative forums; legislative, regulatory, and committee work; community education), cultivate impact litigation, and support the Project Director with policy advocacy.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Coordinate, supervise, mentor, and support legal advocacy of DLP staff statewide.
2. Monitor DLP staff caseloads, management, and processing of cases to promote quality of representation.
3. Oversee and provide direct representation in impact cases and co-counseling support to other DLP attorneys; maintain reduced individual caseload as needed.
4. Participate in policy work and statewide councils, groups, and committees as delegated by the Project Director.
5. Onboard new staff; plan, coordinate, and implement training to new and existing staff in conjunction with CLASI’s Advocacy Director.
6. Coordinate the recruitment and assessment of applicants for DLP legal staff positions.
7. Collaborate with the Project Director in developing and monitoring achievement of program priorities.
8. Serve as a member of CLASI’s Senior Management and Leadership Teams and participate actively in other CLASI committees to support the good of the organization.
9. Collaborate with staff across CLASI’s other programs to facilitate and enhance CLASI services.
10. Fulfill any other reasonably related program duties delegated by the Project Director.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Admitted to practice law and in good standing. If not admitted in Delaware, must be eligible for and willing to register to take the next scheduled Delaware Bar Examination.
2. Minimum of five years’ experience as an attorney.
3. Experience supervising staff or programs.
4. Interest in and knowledge of the issues affecting individuals with disabilities.
5. Ability to travel statewide and, at times, out-of-state for conferences.
6. Willingness to work evenings and weekends if needed for meetings and community education presentations.
7. Successfully complete government clearance by the United States Government Office of Personnel Management. Clearance must be completed/obtained within the first 3 months of hire and other background checks as may be required by funders.
8. Must complete COVID-19 primary vaccination series, booster, and bivalent booster (unless exemption applies).

CLASI strongly encourages interested candidates with diverse backgrounds to apply, including people of color, women, people who are LGBTQ+, veterans, people with disabilities, and persons from other underrepresented groups. CLASI is an equal opportunity employer and committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Candidates are encouraged to share with us how they will add to our diversity.

APPLICATION: Provide letter of interest and résumé to Marissa Band at mband@declasi.org

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

POSITION TITLE:  Housing Unit Staff Attorney – Full-time

LOCATION:  Delaware Statewide Responsibilities – Home office in Wilmington, Dover, or Georgetown

REPORTS TO: Managing Attorney, Housing

SALARY: Depending on experience; excellent benefits. (Details on salary and benefits can be found at the bottom of this page.)

POSTING DATE: June 16, 2023

CONTEXT OF POSITION:
Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI) provides free legal representation to people with disabilities, people age 60 or over, people with low incomes, and victims of crime and discrimination to help our clients obtain shelter, government benefits, educational services, medical services, orders of protection from abuse, legal immigration status, and other civil legal remedies. CLASI provides employees with a supportive and collaborative work environment.

The work of the Housing Unit focuses on: 1) providing representation to individual households facing eviction, housing instability, or unsafe conditions; 2) enforcing Fair Housing rights; and 3) working towards systemic change in Delaware.

CLASI’s Housing Unit is looking for candidates who believe that each individual in Delaware has the right to safe, affordable housing and who is willing to bring innovation and energy to asserting this right for every client.

Under the supervision of the Managing Attorney, the staff attorney will be responsible for providing direct legal assistance to clients throughout the state of Delaware. The staff attorney is responsible for appearing in court, providing training for partners and the community, engaging in systemic and policy advocacy, and other duties as identified and necessary to meet the objectives of the program.

The applicant for this position must be able to interact effectively with and be sensitive to the special needs of CLASI clients, including older adults, individuals with physical and mental disabilities, people with low incomes, people with limited English proficiency and members of protected classes.

DUTIES:

1. Provide direct legal services to clients and advocate on behalf of clients in court/litigation, administrative hearings, and various other venues.
2. Supervise paralegal(s).
3. Engage in community education.
4. Assist in drafting and analyzing legislation, regulations and policies.
5. Engage in impact/systemic litigation/advocacy.
6. Travel as directed to see clients and participate in work-related activities, including outreach events and presentations that occur at night or on weekends, as needed.
7. Become and remain well-informed regarding basic legal principles applicable to area(s) of practice.
8. If fluent in another language, interpret and/or translate documents for other CLASI staff, as needed.
9. Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Admission to the Delaware bar preferred. If not admitted, admission to bar of another state preferred. If not admitted in Delaware, must be eligible to take the next scheduled Delaware Bar Examination and meet admission requirements including character and fitness.
2. Legal Services/P&A experience strongly preferred.
3. Interest in and knowledge of the legal issues affecting individuals who are poor and with disabilities required.
4. Two-year commitment required.
5. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
6. Ability to undertake legal analysis.
7. Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish, both orally and in writing, strongly preferred, but not required.
8. Commitment to working with marginalized populations and sensitivity to their needs.
9. Ability and willingness to make effective public presentations.
10. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
11. Ability to travel across the state and work evenings and weekends occasionally for out-of-office training sessions, agency-related meetings, and community education presentations.
12. Strong computer skills, including ability to use Microsoft Word, Outlook, etc.
13. Ability to handle multiple projects and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
14. Ability to work both independently and in collaboration with others.
15. Ability to accept constructive criticism, willingness to engage in continuous training, supervision, and evaluation.

CLASI strongly encourages interested candidates with diverse backgrounds to apply, including people of color, women, people who identify as LGBTQ, veterans, people with disabilities, and persons from other underrepresented groups. CLASI is an equal opportunity employer and committed to building a culturally diverse and inclusive workplace. Candidates are encouraged to share with us how they will add to our diversity.

CLASI is unionized and members of the bargaining unit (attorneys and advocates) are represented by Delaware Legal Aid Workers, NOLSW/UAW Local 2320. More information about CLASI can be found at www.declasi.org. This position will be in the bargaining unit. CLASI’s salary scale is available at www.declasi.org/employment.

To apply, please email resume, cover letter, and writing sample to Sarah Rhine at SRhine@declasi.org.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

POSITION TITLE: Full-time Qualified Tenant Advocate/Housing Advocate

LOCATION: Delaware statewide responsibilities – home office in Wilmington, Dover, or Georgetown

REPORTS TO: Managing/Supervising Attorney, Housing

SALARY: Depending on experience; excellent benefits. (Details on salary and benefits can be found at the bottom of this page.)

POSTING DATE: January 18, 2023

CONTEXT OF POSITION: CLASI provides free legal representation to people with disabilities, people age 60 or over, people with low incomes, and victims of crime and discrimination to help our clients obtain shelter, government benefits, educational services, medical services, orders of protection from abuse, legal immigration status, and other civil legal remedies. CLASI provides employees with a supportive and collaborative work environment.

Effective March 1, 2022, the Delaware Supreme Court has authorized Qualified Tenant Advocates to represent tenants in eviction matters, both in and out of court, under the supervision of a legal aid attorney.

Qualified Tenant Advocates, under the supervision of attorneys in the Housing Unit, will assist clients with eviction defense in each of the three Delaware Counties: New Castle, Kent or Sussex County. The Qualified Tenant Advocate (“QTA”) will focus on helping clients facing eviction to achieve housing stability. The QTA will handle intake and client representation duties. The QTA will focus on identifying any potential defenses a tenant may have that would save the tenant from being evicted and will represent the tenant in alternative dispute resolution, resource navigation, negotiations, and/or in any eviction hearing in the Justice of the Peace Court.

The Qualified Tenant Advocate will have paid, employer-provided, on-the-job training. In addition, this position will provide opportunities for professional development.

The applicant for this position must be able to interact effectively with and be sensitive to the special needs of CLASI clients, including older adults, individuals with physical and mental disabilities, people with low incomes, and people with limited English proficiency.

DUTIES:
-Undergo an extensive training program and continuous training, supervision and evaluation.

-Conduct intake and interview clients; engage in factual investigations.

-Under supervision of attorneys, provide advocacy in eviction defense cases, including representing tenants in alternative dispute resolution and/or in court for a hearing.

-Research and provide referrals to community resources, including the Delaware Housing Assistance Program, Eviction Prevention Navigators, and social services.

-Assist clients to locate affordable housing and develop relationships with landlords and property managers throughout the state of Delaware

-Draft correspondence and other documents under the supervision of attorneys.

-Provide administrative support to attorneys.

-Travel as directed to see clients and participate in work-related activities, including outreach events and presentations that occur at night or on weekends, as needed.

-Become and remain well-informed regarding basic legal principles applicable to area(s) of practice.

-Interpret and/or translate documents for other CLASI staff, as needed.

-Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
-Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

-Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish, both orally and in writing, strongly preferred, but not required.

-Commitment to working with marginalized populations and sensitivity to their needs.

-Ability and willingness to make effective public presentations.

-Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

-Ability to travel across the state and work evenings and weekends occasionally for out-of-office training sessions, agency-related meetings, and community education presentations.

-Strong computer skills, including ability to use Microsoft Word, Outlook, etc.

-Ability to handle multiple projects and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.

-Ability to work both independently and in collaboration with others.

-Ability to accept constructive criticism, willingness to engage in continuous training, supervision, and evaluation.

CLASI strongly encourages interested candidates with diverse backgrounds to apply, including people of color, women, people who identify as LGBTQ, veterans, people with disabilities, and persons from other underrepresented groups. CLASI is an equal opportunity employer and committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.

CLASI is unionized and members of the bargaining unit (attorneys and advocates) are represented by Delaware Legal Aid Workers, NOLSW/UAW Local 2320. This position will be in the bargaining unit. CLASI’s salary scale is available at the bottom of this page.

TO APPLY: Please email a cover letter, resume, and list of references to Sarah Rhine at SRhine@DECLASI.org

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

POSITION TITLE: CLASI Staff Attorney

START DATE: Rolling

SALARY: Commensurate with experience and CLASI’s collective bargaining agreement. (Details on salary and benefits can be found at the bottom of this page.)

REPORTS TO: Managing Attorneys, Supervising Attorneys

LOCATION: One of our three Delaware offices (Wilmington, Dover, or Georgetown)

CONTEXT OF POSITION: CLASI anticipates adding multiple staff attorneys throughout 2024 and 2025. We are looking for candidates who have flexible interests and skills because grant funding, staff turnover, and organizational needs will require us to determine the program/unit assignment closer to the start date. We will guarantee geographic location at time of offer.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Provide direct legal services to clients and advocate on behalf of clients in court/litigation, administrative hearings, and various other venues.
2. Supervise paralegal(s).
3. Engage in community education.
4. Assist in drafting and analyzing legislation, regulations and policies.
5. Engage in impact/systemic litigation/advocacy.
6. Other duties as assigned depending on funding and needs.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Admission to the Delaware bar preferred. If not admitted, admission to bar of another state preferred. If not admitted in Delaware, must be eligible to take the next scheduled Delaware Bar Examination and meet admission requirements including character and fitness.
2. Legal Services/P&A experience strongly preferred.
3. Interest in and knowledge of the legal issues affecting individuals who are poor and with disabilities required.
4. Sensitivity to and experience with serving vulnerable populations required.
5. Two-year commitment required.
6. Good organizational skills and initiative, and interest in engaging a broad range of advocacy skills, including litigation required
7. Willingness and ability to perform some duties in health care settings if necessary required.
8. Must exhibit patience, tact, and respect when dealing with the public, clients, and staff.
9. Must be flexible since priorities and areas of emphasis may change depending on our funding and client needs.
10. Spanish or language other than English fluency/proficiency is helpful but not required.
11. COVID Vaccination will be required.

CLASI values a diverse work environment and strongly encourages women, people of color, veterans, people who identify as LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, people who have experienced poverty or homelessness and people who have had prior contact with the juvenile, criminal, or child welfare systems to apply. CLASI invites and encourages all applicants to include in their cover letter a statement about how your unique background and/or experiences might contribute to the diversity, cultural vitality, and perspective of our staff and legal services practice.

TO APPLY: Please provide a cover letter explaining your interest in the position, a resume, three professional references, and one brief writing sample (10 pages or less). Email your application materials to attorneyjobs@declasi.org.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (“CLASI”) is recruiting testers to help investigate complaints of discrimination in the housing market here in Delaware. To do this, CLASI conducts testing for compliance with Fair Housing laws statewide. Testing is a controlled process wherein a tester will either call or visit a housing provider posing as an interested party. Testers will have to collect information that will be utilized to assist in investigations. CLASI uses these tests to determine if housing providers are discriminating against potential buyers/renters based on their race, color, familial status, disability, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

Testers must attend a 2 to 3-hour training session. Following this training, the test coordinator will contact the Tester when a test is ready to be performed and ask if they are able to commit to conducting that test. If the Tester agrees, then the test coordinator will send all the information that they need to complete the test. CLASI relies on email for communication to notify testers, set up scenarios, and submit tests.

Testers are paid a stipend ($50 – $90) for each test that is conducted, and they are reimbursed for mileage, tolls, and postage. Testers are also paid $40 for completing their training.

Testers must:

– Be capable of following instructions, and of being impartial and observant;

– Have excellent writing skills and attention to detail;

– Be capable of submitting testing materials timely;

– Have reliable transportation;

– Have a telephone.

Testers must NOT:

– Be a licensed competitor of the person or organization to be tested in the listing, rental, sale, or financing of real estate;

– Have prior felony convictions or convictions of crimes involving fraud or perjury; per U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) regulations, CLASI must perform a criminal background check before approving an application.

TO APPLY:  If you are interested in applying to become a Fair Housing Tester, please contact CLASI’s Fair Housing Coordinator Kate Cirrito at kcirrito@declasi.org, or 302-647-7969.

Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (“CLASI”) will sponsor candidates for post-graduate public interest attorney fellowships provided by the Skadden Foundation, Equal Justice Works, or other identified foundations.  A fellowship at CLASI provides recent law school graduates interested in a public interest law career the opportunity to work at a non-LSC funded legal services and Protection and Advocacy program.  Since its establishment in 1946, CLASI has remained the largest non-profit public interest law firm in Delaware.  More information about CLASI can be found at www.declasi.org.

CLASI will accept fellowship applications through July 5 each year. Interested candidates may wish to consult with us in advance regarding suggestions for viable proposals. We encourage interested candidates with diverse cultural backgrounds and/or oral proficiency in languages other than English to contact us.  Interested candidates should submit the following electronically:

• Resume
• Cover letter addressing their interest and experience in public interest work and poverty/disability/elder law and describing any ideas for a fellowship proposal.
• Although we ask that you describe any ideas you have regarding a fellowship proposal, please note that it is not necessary to have a proposal at this stage of the application process.
• One or two brief legal writing samples
• Law school transcript
• List of three references
• A list of any other organizations with whom you are pursuing fellowship opportunities.

These materials should be sent via email to the attention of Daniel Atkins, CLASI Executive Director, at datkins@declasi.org. Candidates may address any questions about the application process to Daniel Atkins: (302) 575-0660, ext. 229 or datkins@declasi.org.

Please note that CLASI may sponsor more than one individual for each fellowship opportunity and that fellowship awards are not guarantees of employment with CLASI once the fellowship expires.