Associate Attorney - Student Services and Disabilities

Job Overview: A law firm is seeking an Associate Attorney with 0-5 years of experience to join its Student Services and Disabilities Law Practice Group (SSDLPG). This role involves supporting senior associates, of counsel, and partners in providing legal advice and representation to clients in issues related to pre-school through 12th-grade students, with a particular focus on special education, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The successful candidate will engage in legal research, writing, client counseling, and litigation in various administrative and legal forums.

Duties:

• Assist senior associates, of counsel, and partners in representing clients in matters related to special education, student disabilities, and discrimination
• Conduct legal research and draft legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and briefs
• Provide daily advice and counsel to clients regarding compliance with special education and disability laws
• Represent clients in administrative hearings before the California Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), California Department of Education (CDE), and the Federal Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
• Collaborate with team members to develop legal strategies for student-related litigation
• Maintain open communication with clients to keep them informed on case developments

Requirements:

• 0-5 years of experience in legal practice
• Strong research, writing, and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with senior attorneys and support staff
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills
• Capable of handling multiple assignments and prioritizing tasks effectively

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school

Certifications:

• Active member of the California State Bar, or eligible for admission to the California Bar

Skills:

• Proficiency in legal research and writing
• Familiarity with special education law, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with clients, colleagues, and administrative agencies
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented environment

This California firm was founded in 1979 and focuses on employment, labor, construction, education, real estate, general business and business litigation, corporate, taxation, bankruptcy, and immigration. Committed to high-quality legal work, the highly experienced lawyers have won many cases on behalf of clients. The firm has received numerous awards and accolades for professional accomplishments and contributions to communities. The diverse team of attorneys has business and education backgrounds allowing for the combination of practical, useful advice with innovative legal strategies. Believing in diversity, the firm is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. The attorneys actively support education and other non-profit organizations. The firm is committed to collegiality, teamwork, and openness with each other and with clients. The firm also provides numerous in-house training sessions and workshops on current legal matters.