- Position: Managing Attorney
- Organization: A New Way of Life Reentry Project (ANWOL)
- Location: Los Angeles, CA (On-site)
- Employment Type: Full-Time
- Salary: $135,000 – $140,000 annually, depending on experience
Position Overview
The Managing Attorney will lead the Legal and Family Reunification Departments at A New Way of Life Reentry Project (ANWOL), overseeing legal services, advocacy, and policy efforts to support reentry and family reunification for justice-impacted individuals. This role involves managing a team of attorneys and support staff, directing litigation efforts, and fostering strategic partnerships with courts, community organizations, and policymakers.
This is a hands-on position and requires carrying a caseload.
Primary Responsibilities
Family Reunification Leadership
- * Provide direct pro bono legal representation to clients in Family and Probate Court.
- * File or respond to petitions to modify physical and/or legal custody rights and visitation rights in Family Court on behalf of previously incarcerated parents, including petitions to modify juvenile closing orders.
- * File petitions to terminate legal guardianship of children of previously incarcerated parents or respond to petitions to appoint legal guardians in Probate Court.
- * Advocate at Criminal and Dependency Court hearings on behalf of previously incarcerated parents and provide support throughout their cases.
- * Conduct client interviews, collect evidence, and develop case materials related to parental rights.
- * Supervise staff attorneys, social workers, and visitation monitors in the Family Reunification Department.
- * Facilitate partnerships with Dependency Court, DCFS, and other stakeholders to support clients’ family reunification efforts.
- * Assist in expanding ANWOL’s family reunification model to other states.
- * Other duties as assigned.
Legal Department Leadership
- * Coordinate the Legal Department’s efforts in litigation, sentence reduction, and impact litigation.
- * Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of contracts.
- * Collaborate with the Advocacy Department to support legal research and analysis for policy efforts.
- * Manage relationships with outside legal counsel, including pro bono support.
Policy and Advocacy Coordination
- * Work with inter-departmental teams to align legal efforts with advocacy goals.
- * Assist in building relationships with policymakers and stakeholders to advance reentry and family reunification policies.
- * Publish articles, opinion pieces, and thought leadership on family reunification and reentry issues.
Team Collaboration and Development
- * Foster teamwork across departments by facilitating regular inter-departmental meetings.
- * Mentor and supervise legal staff, ensuring professional growth and adherence to ANWOL’s mission.
- * Develop and implement department strategies to improve service delivery and client outcomes.
Qualifications
- * J.D. and admission with the California Bar.
- * 10+ years of legal experience, including nonprofit advising and litigation in Family and/or Probate Court.
- * Familiarity with Dependency Court and child welfare systems.
- * Proven leadership skills with 5+ years of supervisory experience.
- * Experience working with individuals impacted by the criminal justice or child welfare systems.
- * Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- * Ability to manage multiple priorities and innovate interdisciplinary legal solutions.
- * Regular access to a personal vehicle for court visits and community events.
Compensation and Benefits
Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, and a matching 403(b) retirement plan.
How to Apply
Formerly incarcerated individuals or those impacted by the criminal justice or child welfare systems are encouraged to apply.
Send a cover letter and resume to:
careers@anewwayoflife.org
