VERMONT LAW SCHOOL seeks an Assistant Professor and Staff Attorney teach in the Family Law Project, housed within the South Royalton Legal Clinic (SRLC). The SRLC is dedicated to providing access to justice for low-income and unemployed Vermont residents, while giving comprehensive training to the next generation of legal advocates. The Clinic provides no-cost legal representation in a wide range of civil proceedings to those who otherwise could not afford legal counsel. In the Family Law Project Staff Attorneys and Students work on a variety of family law matters, including divorce, paternity, child support, domestic violence, and post-judgment matters.
The Family Law Program consists of two projects, Children First! and the Domestic Violence Project. Children First! provides legal representation to children involved in highly contentious family court cases (divorce, post-judgment, parentage, etc.) and probate court (guardianships), filling a widely recognized, but largely unmet, need in the Vermont Family Court system. Cases are referred to the Clinic by Family Courts and sometimes by other attorneys. The DV project is structured to provide comprehensive legal services to survivors in order to enhance safety and financial security and empower victims to take control of their lives.
Responsibilities of the position include developing and implementing the Clinic’s curriculum and mission; screening requests for assistance from community partners; substantive teaching in family law and lawyering skills; and regularly meeting with and supervising students as they handle cases.
Specific duties may include:
1. Working with the lead attorneys to develop the project’s curriculum, courses, and mission consistent with Law School needs and objectives.
2. Teaching in the SRLC, e.g.:
a. providing substantive instruction in family law, lawyering skills, and related areas
b. screening and assigning appropriate cases to clinic students
c. holding individual conferences with students as appropriate
d. reviewing, critiquing, and approving documents prepared by students in their cases
3. Appearing on behalf of SRLC clients in court and administrative proceedings (and managing the resolution of outstanding issues).
4. Attending regular staff meetings and coordinating with other clinical faculty; collaborating and teaching in areas of common interest among the SRLC.
5. Participating in Law School service and committee work.
This is a year-round, grant-funded position with an initial three-year appointment, renewable for additional years contingent on funding. A J.D. is required, and the successful applicant must be admitted to the Vermont Bar or eligible for prompt admission to the Vermont Bar. Applicants should have a minimum of 3 years experience as a practicing attorney. Experience in representing individuals in family law cases and in addressing civil legal needs of low-income citizens is preferred.
To apply, visit: https://vermontlaw.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=114365