Senior Program Attorney

About Houston-Galveston Area Council

The Houston-Galveston Area Council is one of the largest regional planning commissions in the country with a diverse service area of 13 counties and more than 7 million people. We are the pulse of our region addressing issues that cross city limits and county lines every single day.

We make decisions that affect our transportation system, ensure the safety and well-being of our seniors, connect people to jobs, help families recover from natural disasters, preserve water quality for our children, and so much more. We work to make the region a great place to live, work, and thrive.

What will I be doing?

ü Primary responsibility is to coordinate and stage legal clinics at senior and community centers throughout the H-GAC region. Eligible seniors receive attorney-drafted legal documents free-of-charge.

Note:

This position involves extensive same-day travel in H-GAC's service area in order to meet face-to-face with clients in group and individual settings.

ü Provide information, referrals and representation to victims regarding orders of protection, powers of attorney and guardianship as well as credit restoration, public benefits, housing, and other issues arising from the abuse.

ü Serve as liaison for abuse victims with law enforcement officers and prosecutors as well as Adult Protective Services caseworkers and investigators. With client permission, will share applicable information and coordinate efforts with criminal justice agencies.

ü Interview clients and/or review completed intakes in order to compile and summarize critical information regarding the victim's needs and rights as well as eligibility for any applicable remedies and/or services.

Key Qualifications

ü A Juris Doctor degree from an accredited U.S. law school and a current Texas law license in good standing

ü Bilingual in English and Spanish is strongly preferred

ü Knowledge of the law as it pertains to elder abuse and/or domestic violence

ü Direct client-services experience in one of the following: advance planning, wills and trusts, or guardianship.

ü Able to work independently and manage a busy client caseload

ü Able to communicate patiently and effectively with senior and disabled clients who are experiencing high stress due to being a victim of crime

ü Computer proficiency, including with legal research, document assembly and filing software

Do you have…

ü Bachelor's degree in an applicable academic discipline or related field of study

ü 5 years of experience working with local government, nonprofit programs, school or in job related duties