Northwest Justice Project (NJP) offers a unique leadership opportunity in a mission driven organization serving the legal aid needs of low-income people and communities in Clark, Klickitat and Skamania Counties. NJP is a not-for-profit law firm that provides free civil legal services to address barriers and promote justice for low-income persons throughout the state. NJP offers an opportunity for professional growth and development within a larger statewide legal aid program while making a difference in people’s lives.

NJP is seeking qualified candidates to serve as Senior Attorney for its office located in Vancouver, Washington. The Senior Attorney is responsible for day-to-day office management and supervision of the service office, which include attorneys and support staff.  NJP Senior Attorneys also provide advocacy leadership in the service region and in NJP.  

All NJP attorneys work together as part of a statewide law firm, and in partnership with other legal aid providers, to bring high quality civil representation to Washington’s low income populations and communities. NJP attorneys are expected to provide counsel, representation and strategic engagement with diverse client communities on a wide variety of substantive law issues that affect the poor. NJP’s Vancouver office uses a broad range of advocacy tools to promote justice and access to the courts, preserve low-income housing options, secure health and income opportunities, protect families and victims of crime, and to engage with client and community groups to secure the long-term well-being of the low-income communities.  

NJP has an organizational commitment to fight racism and embrace equity and inclusion in both those we serve and those we employee.   All staff are expected to uphold this commitment and approach their role with a desire to learn and grow in this area. 

QUALIFICATIONS:  Minimum five years’ legal experience with strong litigation skills required.  Prior experience in a leadership role preferred.  Must possess strong oral and written communication skills.  Member of the Washington Bar, licensed in a state bar to which Washington could grant reciprocity or willing and able to take next bar is required.   

Resume should reflect exceptional relevant work experience as well as a commitment to serving low-income persons.  

Demonstrated experience and/or connection to NJP’s client communities is strongly preferred. The Northwest Justice Project is especially interested in qualified candidates whose professional, personal and/or service experience allow them to contribute to and support the NJP’s and the broader legal aid community’s commitment to race equity.  Must be willing to be engaged with the community to be served.  Language proficiency in a language spoken by some of our client community, especially Spanish, is a plus. 

SALARY: Salary will be based upon years of relevant experience with a salary range beginning at $69,000.   NJP provides life insurance, long term disability insurance and pays premiums for medical, dental and vision insurance to all benefited employees as well as making significant contributions toward dependent health benefit premiums.  NJP also offers a generous time off benefits and law school loan repayment assistance. 

TO APPLY:  Interested candidates should send a cover letter, current resume and writing sample to: Karen Holland at attorneyresume@nwjustice.org. Email subject line should clearly reference “Senior Attorney – Vancouver” position. Cover letter should include description of any past experience, personal or professional, with low income or other marginalized communities.

NJP is committed to a policy of equal opportunity and fosters an environment free of barriers and discriminatory practices. NJP actively promotes mutual respect, acceptance, teamwork and productivity. NJP is committed to maintaining an organization whose staff, Board and clients are diverse in background, experience, race, color, national origin, gender, age, religious reference, marital status, sexual orientation, sensory, mental or physical abilities, veteran status, and other qualities that strengthen the program while reinforcing its commitment to basic fairness. People of color, people who identify as transgender, lesbian, gay, or bisexual, and those with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals needing a reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process or for more information about the project should contact Karen Holland at (206) 707-0802.