Staff Attorney - Housing

The Housing Practice Group (HPG) seeks to ensure that tenants live in decent, safe, and sanitary housing, free from discrimination and affirmatively furthers fair housing through litigation, negotiation, and advocacy in various venues. HPG defends tenants – mostly subsidized housing residents -- against unwarranted evictions and represents individuals and families who are facing the termination of their housing subsidies. HPG serves a partner in the Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt (CCLAHD) Early Resolution Program (ERP) providing limited assistance to tenants in Cook County to advise them of their rights, provide referrals, and assist them in reaching agreements with their landlord. HPG is also a partner in City of Chicago Right to Counsel Pilot.

What You Will Do

Interview eligible clients on a wide range of housing issues and provide advice and brief services where appropriate. Provide representation to clients facing eviction, with an emphasis on negotiation and representation. Investigate and pursue affirmative litigation where appropriate.

Why It Might Be a Fit

The successful applicant will be collegial, and demonstrate a commitment to and experience with our client communities and/or people living in poverty, and applicants are encouraged to share that experience in their cover letter. The applicant’s personal background, experience, or professional background should reflect an ability to work effectively in cross-cultural situations with clients, co-workers and the community we serve.

Requirements

• J.D. degree
• Licensed to practice law in Illinois or licensed in another state and able to waive into the Illinois bar or have sat for the July 2026 bar examination
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Highly developed organizational skills
• Great client counseling skills
• Ability to work well under pressure
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
• Flexibility
• Ability to travel to communities, courthouses, and clinics that we serve

Benefits

• Bilingual Staff Attorneys eligible for an additional stipend
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 15 vacation days and 18 sick days accrued within the first year of employment
• 19 paid holidays, including four (4) floating holidays
• Twelve weeks of Paid Parental Leave at 100% of the salary after six months of employment
• 403(b) retirement plan with an employer contribution after one year of employment
• Basic Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance
• Access to Employee Assistance Program resources
• Monthly internet reimbursement
• Eligible employer for the federal public service loan forgiveness program