Staff Attorney

Description

Legal Aid of West Virginia (LAWV) is seeking a passionate and dedicated Staff Attorney to join our Elkins office. In this role, you will help individuals and families—especially those with children—break the cycle of poverty and build stronger, more stable futures.

This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to use your legal expertise to create meaningful, lasting change by advancing stability, economic security, and client empowerment.

What You’ll Do

As a Staff Attorney, you will work across diverse areas of law that directly impact families and communities, including kinship care and barriers to employment.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing direct legal representation to clients, with a focus on family stability and economic independence
• Conducting client interviews, case assessments, and developing legal strategies
• Advocating for clients in magistrate, family, and circuit courts
• Balancing administrative responsibilities while managing an active caseload
• Collaborating with LAWV staff and community partners to ensure comprehensive client support
• Participating in community outreach and education, building strong partnerships and increasing access to legal resources
• Utilizing and learning LAWV’s case management systems and office technologies

Why Join LAWV?

• Mission-Driven Work: Help families achieve safety, stability, and opportunity
• Variety & Impact: Work in multiple areas of law that directly change lives
• Supportive Culture: Join a collaborative, compassionate, and purpose-driven team
• Excellent Benefits: Competitive salary plus a comprehensive benefits package including: 
  • Medical, dental, and life insurance
  • Generous paid leave
  • A family-friendly work environment

Requirements

We’re seeking an attorney who not only brings strong legal skills, but also a deep commitment to serving vulnerable populations.

Required Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
• Admission to practice law in West Virginia and in good standing
  OR eligibility for admission under WV Supreme Court Rule 9
  OR ability to sit for the next West Virginia Bar Exam
• Experience or strong interest in family law, poverty law, or public interest work
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage both advocacy and administrative duties
• Proficiency in office technology and willingness to learn LAWV case management software