Staff Attorney: Family Preservation Project; Springfield

CLA seeks an attorney who will be part of a multi-disciplinary team helping parents who are involved with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF). The goal of the Family Preservation Project (FPP) is to ensure that families get the help they need addressing issues of concern to DCF so that DCF does not remove the children from their home.

This project aims to keep children safe with their families, minimize the emotional trauma caused by removal, and allow the foster care system to focus its resources on children who truly need its protection.

• Third‑year law students, recent law school graduates, and more experienced attorneys are eligible to apply.
• Prior experience with child welfare law is preferred, as is experience in one or more core poverty‑law practice areas.
• Excellent organizational, communication, writing, and decision‑making skills.
• Ability to work closely with colleagues as a member of a team and committed to serving the needs of a diverse client base.

• The starting salary for this position is $73,000, which is based on a union scale and adjusted upward depending on experience.
• CLA has a hybrid work environment and requires advocates to work in their assigned office at least three days per week.
• CLA offers a very generous benefits package that includes:
  • 401(k) with employer‑paid contribution
  • Low‑cost health insurance (medical, dental, and vision) for employees and their dependents
  • Malpractice insurance
  • Paid leave - 4 weeks vacation, 3 personal days, 12 sick days, and 13 holidays
  • Student loan repayment assistance up to $500/month
  • Relocation reimbursement up to $2,500

Please submit cover letter and resume electronically or mail to Alicia Vaughan, Human Resources Director, Community Legal Aid, 370 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608. CLA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to ensure that our staff members reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. CLA encourages applicants from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences.

Community Legal Aid (CLA) is the non‑profit legal services program providing free civil legal assistance to low‑income and elderly residents of central and western Massachusetts. CLA has over 180 dedicated, talented staff working across multiple offices. Our core work includes effective client‑centered advocacy and partnerships with our client communities.

CLA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to ensure that our staff members reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. CLA encourages applicants from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences.