Staff Attorney, Foreclosure Prevention Unit (Spokane) - Northwest Justice Project
Agency Name: Northwest Justice Project
Position / Job Title : Staff Attorney - Foreclosure Prevention Unit - Spokane, WA
Location: Spokane, WA
Category : Attorney
Job Description: Northwest Justice Project (NJP) seeks qualified attorneys for its Foreclosure Prevention Unit (FPU). FPU attorneys work in collaboration with the statewide network of foreclosure defense advocates to address the legal needs of homeowners to mitigate or prevent home foreclosure throughout Washington state. NJP is offering an opportunity to work in an exciting and highly mission driven legal aid environment working as part of a statewide legal team. There is a full time opportunity in our Spokane, WA office.
NJP requires all employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Providing proof of COVID-19 vaccine is a condition of employment. Exemptions based on medical and sincerely held religious beliefs may be requested per NJP’s EEO employer policy.
JOB DUTIES:
The Foreclosure Prevention Unit attorney will:
Work under the direction of NJP’s FPU Managing Attorney to develop and implement a response to the many homeowners facing mortgage delinquencies and foreclosure as a result of the COVID-19 health emergency.
Develop collaborative working relationships with a statewide network of housing counseling agencies to support their work through case referrals and general legal assistance.
Provide direct legal assistance to homeowners coping with the consequences of mortgage delinquency, and assess client eligibility for workout options such as loan modification and/or loan forbearance.
Represent homeowners under the Foreclosure Fairness Act, in non-judicial proceedings such as meet-and-confers and foreclosure mediation.
Represent homeowners in strategic litigation aimed at preserving homeownership and curbing industry bad actors.
Identify and develop resources for use by homeowners in mediation and other foreclosure related issues.
Provide training for participating attorneys, housing counselors, community advocates and others on legal issues related to mortgage foreclosure.
Respond to inquiries from housing counselors and others working with low-income persons seeking to avoid foreclosure.
Develop and participate in outreach activities and community engagement activities around foreclosure prevention.
NJP has an organizational commitment to fight racism and to incorporate equity and inclusion in both the work we do and work environment we create. All staff are expected to uphold this commitment and approach their role with a desire to learn and grow in this area.
Qualifications
Washington State Bar membership in good standing, the ability to acquire membership through admission by motion, or willing and able to take next bar is required
Demonstrated commitment to serving low-income persons.
Experience in Washington real property and mortgage foreclosure law or comparable related experience is preferred, specifically with residential property foreclosure matters either on behalf of homeowners/borrowers or lenders, trustees, or other financial service entities involved with mortgage lending, foreclosure, loan work out agreements and similar legal assistance activities.
Experience assisting clients in other consumer statutes, such as Truth-in-Lending or unfair and deceptive practices, will be viewed favorably.
Knowledge and experience in personal bankruptcy law is also a plus.
Requires a deep understanding of and sympathy for the impacts economic crises can have on individuals and families. The successful candidate must demonstrate a critical understanding of the disparate impacts economic crises have on BIPOC households.
Able to work collaboratively and with a diverse array of clients, co-workers, opposing counsel and public and private entities.
Northwest Justice Project is a publicly funded and regulated entity subject to various funding restrictions, and reporting requirements. The attorney must be willing to work within the context of these requirements.
Compensation: Starting salary is based upon years of experience, with an annual salary range of $67,951 to $124,222. We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes 100% paid employee health premiums and significant premium shares for family health premiums, as well as generous time off.
Hours of work: NJP’s typical client office hours are 9:00 – 5:00, Monday through Friday. Attorney positions are exempt and those in the position are expected to work the hours needed to meet the professional responsibilities.
Cover letter should include description of any experience, personal or professional, with low income or other marginalized communities.
Northwest Justice Project is especially interested in qualified candidates whose professional, personal and/or service experience allow them to contribute to and support the legal aid community’s commitment to race equity.
NJP is committed to a policy of equal opportunity and fosters an environment free of barriers and discriminatory practices. NJP actively promotes mutual respect, acceptance, teamwork and productivity. NJP is committed to maintaining an organization whose staff, Board and clients are diverse in background, experience, race, color, national origin, gender, age, religious preference, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sensory, mental or physical abilities, veteran status, and other qualities that strengthen the program while reinforcing its commitment to basic fairness. People of color, people who identify as transgender, lesbian, gay, or bisexual, and those with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals needing a reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process or for more information about the project should contact the Human Resources Department by calling (206) 464-1519.
Link to Application: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=12339&clientkey=436AF11A762D2C4ED2D0595809CF6553