Overview

AARP's Legal Counsel for the Elderly champions the dignity and rights of vulnerable Washington, D.C. seniors 60-plus, providing free legal and social work services to those in need - empowering, defending, protecting, and helping thousands of clients each year in many areas of civil law.

The Staff Attorney provides legal counsel and/or represents Veterans and spouses of Veterans clients in the practice areas of veterans benefits and public benefits, civil litigation and other legal proceedings. Prepares cases and participates in trial preparation before Administrative bodies, preparation of amicus or other briefs, discovery, negotiations, and mediations. Engages in systemic advocacy relating to areas of expertise. Conducts community outreach and education. Supports and counsels clients in representing themselves.

Responsibilities

• Provides timely and accurate information, legal advice, representation in litigation or non-litigation matters concerning veterans benefits and public benefits, referral, self-help materials, guidance, and/or other assistance to eligible clients within and related to the attorney's practice area.
• Engages in or supports systemic advocacy related to the attorney's area of expertise.
• Conducts community outreach, education, and training events.
• Provides guidance, refers cases, and monitors work of pro bono attorneys, volunteers, law students, and legal support staff on assigned cases.
• Develops and maintains expertise in primary areas of responsibility.
• Collaborates with other legal services advocates, clients, and community leaders on systemic issues.
• Participates as a member of practice area teams and on cross-organizational working groups to develop innovative approaches to enhance service delivery for organization clients.

Qualifications

• Completion of a Juris Doctorate degree and member of the DC Bar or eligible to waive into DC.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in veterans' benefits.

AARP will not sponsor an employment visa for this position at this time.

Additional Requirements

• Regular and reliable job attendance.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships.
• Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions.
• In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.

Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA)

AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as telecommuting workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work and telecommuting can only be done within the United States and its territories.

Compensation and Benefits

AARP offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including a 401(k); 100% company-funded pension plan; health, dental, and vision plans; life insurance; paid time off to include company and individual holidays, vacation, sick, caregiving, and parental leave; performance-based and peer-based recognition; tuition reimbursement; among others.

Equal Employment Opportunity

AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.