Staff Attorney, Housing Justice for Survivors Project
The Staff Attorney for the Housing Justice for Survivors Project at Harvard Law School's Legal Services Center (LSC) is a full-time position dedicated to representing tenants facing housing instability due to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The LSC is a community-based clinical law program that educates law students while addressing critical community needs through various legal clinics.
In this role, the Staff Attorney will manage an active caseload of eviction defense and tenancy termination cases, employing trauma-informed and client-centered advocacy. Responsibilities include screening cases for merit, maintaining the project's housing docket, collaborating with housing advocates from Casa Myrna, mentoring clinical law students, and developing strategic litigation to address systemic issues affecting survivors' housing rights.
Candidates must possess a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and be admitted to the Massachusetts bar or eligible for temporary admission. A minimum of three years of related experience is required, with a demonstrated commitment to social justice advocacy, meaningful experience in housing law, and a focus on serving survivors of gender-based violence. The position also requires dedication to interdisciplinary work and partnering with housing advocates, as well as a commitment to diversity and an inclusive working environment.
This is a one-year term appointment with the potential for renewal, subject to funding and department needs. The position is full-time and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
Joining the Housing Justice for Survivors Project offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of survivors of gender-based violence by ensuring their housing rights are protected. The role provides a collaborative environment with dedicated professionals committed to social justice and offers the chance to mentor law students while engaging in meaningful legal work.