Organization: The Eviction Defense Network (EDN) is a frontline movement-lawyering organization that defends Los Angeles’ low-income communities of color against gentrification and displacement through litigation, policy advocacy, and coalition-based organizing. We were created in 2003 by experienced tenant attorneys who felt that the rising wave of evictions and gentrification required a new response. That response is embodied in our model: zealous legal representation, coalition-based policy advocacy, and a commitment to serve as many of our fellow Angelenos as possible.
Position Description: EDN is seeking full-time Staff Attorneys to provide full-scope legal representation to tenants facing eviction, from advice and counsel at community-based clinics to regular jury trials and everything in between. EDN attorneys and alumni enjoy a hard-won reputation among the Los Angeles tenant bar as both experienced litigators and housing activists. Attorney duties include:
- Legal intake and preliminary analysis;
- Discovery and motions-based practice;
- High-volume trial calendars;
- Legal counsel for coalition partners and advocacy campaigns; and
- Equal participation in conversations on EDN strategy, both in and out of the courtroom.
Desired Qualifications: Attorneys have joined the EDN family both fresh out of law school and after years of experience advocating for tenants. As a volume-based practice and an organization at the center of the California housing crisis, organizational skills and attention to detail are required, as well as a strong personal commitment to this work. Further desired qualifications include but are not limited to:
- Active membership in the State Bar of California,;
- Availability for in-court appearances, if necessary (otherwise work is remote);
- Personal computer and reliable internet connection; and
- Flexibility in terms of schedule and assigned work.
- Bilingual English and Spanish a plus
Benefits: Attorney salaries begin at $65,000 per year and regularly keep apace of similar positions at other legal service providers in Los Angeles. Health and dental insurance are 100% paid plans starting on the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment. As a 501(c)(3), EDN staff are eligible for Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and multiple attorneys are currently enrolled in that program. All 13 court holidays are paid vacation days, not including 2 weeks of paid vacation in staff’s first year.
Beyond straightforward employee benefits, every EDN attorney gains more litigation experience in a few years that many other attorneys acquire after decades of practice. New staff also benefit from regular training, feedback, and support - including thrice weekly case review sessions. Combined with a hands-on education in movement lawyering and personal networks in Los Angeles’ activist community, EDN alumni acquire the experience to know what they want to do next, along with the skills to do it.
Interested parties can submit their resume - including references - to [email protected], as well as a writing sample of past work (legal or otherwise), and cover letter. Please include your near-term availability for a preliminary interview.