Part-Time Attorney

Core responsibilities:

• Conduct eligibility screenings and intake interviews with veterans by phone and at outreach events
• Provide legal consultations and direct representation in matters involving VA benefit claims, military discharge upgrades, landlord-tenant disputes, criminal record clearing, and other civil legal issues
• Collect and analyze evidence, review records, develop case strategies, and prepare legal briefs and other supportive advocacy documents
• Negotiate with landlords and opposing counsel to resolve disputes and represent veterans in court proceedings and administrative hearings as needed
• Support and expand community partnerships by assisting with legal clinics, “know your rights” presentations for veterans, and trainings for community partner staff

This role creates positive change by providing free legal assistance to low-income veterans, helping them secure VA compensation benefits for disabilities related to military service, pursue military discharge upgrades, and resolve civil legal issues essential to housing stability, thereby supporting those who have served our country.

Required qualifications:

• JD from an accredited law school and admission to the Pennsylvania Bar required (or eligible to waive into the PA bar)
• Excellent oral advocacy, case development, and legal writing skills
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines while maintaining careful attention to detail
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with a diverse population
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively and a proactive willingness to support colleagues whenever needed
• Demonstrated ability to provide thoughtful, compassionate, and patient support to veterans living with mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and/or experiences of trauma
• Prior experience in veterans, housing, or public interest law (preferred but not required)

Compensation: $35-50 per hour, based on relevant experience (approximately $36,400-$52,000 annually for 20-25 hours/week). Hours: 20-25 hours per week, flexible schedule. Location: Primarily remote with occasional in-person requirements in Philadelphia. Culture: Collaborative and hands-on small team environment. Future possibility: This part-time position offers the possibility of expanding to full-time status in the future depending upon organizational needs, available funding, demonstrated abilities, and work performance.

The Veterans Law Center (VLC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free legal assistance to low-income veterans, focusing on helping veterans secure VA compensation benefits for disabilities related to their military service, pursue military discharge upgrades, and assist with civil legal issues essential to housing stability.