About the Organization

Community Legal Aid provides free civil legal assistance to low-income and elderly residents across central and western Massachusetts. With more than 180 staff working across multiple offices, CLA focuses on client-centered advocacy and strong partnerships with the communities it serves. The organization is deeply committed to advancing social justice, reducing the impact of poverty, and ensuring equitable access to legal support for vulnerable populations.

The Role

CLA is hiring a Part-Time Staff Attorney focused on re-entry support for individuals returning to the community after incarceration. Based in the Pittsfield office, this role requires at least 21 hours per week and a hybrid schedule, with in-office presence at least three days per week.

The attorney will work directly with formerly incarcerated individuals to address legal barriers related to their Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI), including sealing, expungement, corrections, and representation in housing and employment denials tied to background checks. The role also includes significant community outreach and collaboration with local partners.

Key Responsibilities

Campaign Strategy and Leadership

• Represent clients seeking to seal, expunge, or correct CORI records
• Challenge housing denials based on CORI through legal advocacy
• Address employment barriers arising from background checks and state agency reviews
• Provide direct legal representation and advice to individuals facing re-entry challenges

Donor Engagement and Major Gifts

• Conduct regular off-site intake hours within the community
• Work closely with community organizations and re-entry partners
• Deliver education and outreach to increase awareness of legal rights and remedies

Campaign Culture and Ecosystem Building

• Collaborate with CLA colleagues in a team-based legal services environment
• Uphold a strong commitment to poverty law and social justice
• Foster respectful, inclusive engagement with diverse communities

Requirements

• Third-year law students, recent law graduates, and experienced attorneys are all eligible to apply
• Preference for experience in re-entry law and community outreach
• Demonstrated commitment to poverty law and social justice work
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively
• Ability to work effectively with diverse communities

What They Offer

• Salary starting at $43,800 (21 hours/week), increasing up to $65,400 based on experience and union scale
• Hybrid work environment with required in-office days in Pittsfield
• 401(k) with employer-paid contribution
• Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents
• Malpractice insurance
• Generous paid leave including vacation, personal days, sick days, and holidays
• Student loan repayment assistance
• Relocation stipend

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted online through the CLA website. Applicants may also mail a resume and cover letter to the Human Resources Director at 370 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608.