Staff Attorney - Volunteer Lawyers Birmingham

Volunteer Lawyers Birmingham (VLB) is a nonprofit organization that connects low-income residents of Jefferson County with pro bono attorneys who provide free legal advice and representation in civil matters.

VLB is seeking a Staff Attorney to assist in coordinating legal help desks, pro se dockets, pro bono clinics, and other VLB initiatives. This is an opportunity to be part of a team providing critical assistance for clients facing civil legal issues involving housing, domestic relations, wage garnishment, estate planning, expungements, and more. The person in this position will be responsible for reviewing, assigning, and tracking cases, with an emphasis on consumer law and/or expungements.

Responsibilities:

  • Coordinate and manage cases that qualify for representation through VLB

  • Determine the most appropriate method of pro bono assistance for each case

  • Work with judges and court personnel to establish and maintain pro se dockets, help desks, and other methods of pro bono service delivery

  • Maintain relationships with the local bar, recruit volunteers, and mentor attorneys

  • Assist the Managing Attorney with creating and updating training materials for volunteers

  • Stay up to date on one or more substantive areas of law to identify client needs and serve as a subject matter expert for volunteers

  • Assist with tracking and reporting information for grants and other purposes

Qualifications:

  • J.D. and admission to practice in Alabama

  • 2–3 years of practice experience in a public interest setting preferred

  • Experience in a relevant area of law

  • Exceptional communication skills

  • Strong organizational and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to interact with a wide variety of constituencies, including judges, attorneys, law students, and low-income clients

  • Demonstrated passion for public service and desire to increase access to justice

  • Willingness to participate in activities, legal assistance clinics, and events held after hours and/or on weekends

Salary and Benefits:

  • Salary range is $55,000 – $60,000, depending on skills and experience

  • Benefits include generous paid time off, health and dental insurance, optional retirement plan, and hybrid work schedule

Application Instructions:

To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and list of three professional references to:

Glory McLaughlin
VLB Executive Director
mclaughlin@volunteerlawyersbham.org

Priority will be given to applications submitted by Monday, July 28, 2025.