Pro Bono Program Legal Fellow

Swords to Plowshares invites applications for a full-time Pro Bono Program Legal Fellow to join our Legal Unit

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At a glance

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Swords to Plowshares invites applications for a full-time Pro Bono Program Legal Fellow to join our Legal Unit. The Pro Bono Program Legal Fellow will work with the Pro Bono Manager & Senior Staff Attorney in the administration of Swords’ Pro Bono Program as well as carry their own client case load.  

This is a one-year fellowship, with the possibility of on-going employment dependent on grant funding. Please submit a detailed cover letter describing your interest in the position along with your resume.  

Key Responsibilities

• Work with the Pro Bono Manager in administering the various aspects of the Swords to Plowshares Pro Bono Program to include providing Continuing Legal Education (CLE) trainings, mentoring pro bono attorneys by fielding case strategy questions and reviewing draft briefs, providing legal assistance at monthly Discharge Upgrade legal clinics, and assisting with  pro bono case placement such as intaking clients, requesting and reviewing records, and coordinating with pro bono law firms;
• Provide legal advice and representation to veteran clients, to include conducting legal research; requesting and reviewing military, medical, and mental health treatment records; developing supportive evidence; writing persuasive advocacy briefs; and representing clients at hearings before the VA Regional Office, the Board of Veterans Appeals, and Department of Defense Discharge Review Boards;
• Work with other program providers to integrate services within Swords to Plowshares’ continuum of care;
• Perform other duties such as develop trainings and self-help materials, attend legal clinics, conferences, and law firm events, and other duties as required by Pro Bono Manager and Legal Director;
• Employee must be able to perform all essential job requirements and responsibilities within what would be considered reasonable accommodation. 

The Successful Candidate

Education

• Juris doctor from an ABA-accredited law school

• Active bar membership in the United States, or awaiting bar exam results. (California bar membership is not required.)

• Previous knowledge of veterans’ law is not required. (Substantive legal training on VA benefits and Discharge Upgrades will be provided by Swords’ Legal Team.) 

Experience

• Experience with or sensitivity to the needs of legal clients who are homeless, trauma survivors, experience mental health symptoms, and/or live with disabilities

• Familiarity with veteran issues is preferred

• Familiarity with public benefits advocacy is preferred

• Veterans strongly encouraged to apply 

Qualifications

• Sound professional judgment

• Administratively self-sufficient

• Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively and remain calm under pressure

• Commitment to the mission of Swords to Plowshares

• Performing some tasks outside the office, such as attendance at legal clinics, meetings, and hearings 

Skills:

• Strong written and oral communication and advocacy skills

• Excellent legal research and writing skills

• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment

• Proficient in using technology, such as Microsoft Word and case management software
• Must be able to communicate effectively with a variety of personalities and be comfortable working with an at-risk client population, including embracing the organization’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiative 

Apply now