Student Services and Disabilities Associate Attorney

Job Title: Student Services and Disabilities Associate Attorney

Job Overview: A prominent law firm in Irvine, CA is seeking a highly motivated Associate Attorney to join its student services and disabilities practice. This opportunity is ideal for individuals with 0-5 years of legal experience, particularly those with a passion for advocating for students and ensuring access to quality education. The role involves supporting senior attorneys and partners in a practice that handles various issues surrounding special education, disabilities, and student rights.

Duties:

• Provide legal support in special education and disability-related cases for students in preschool through 12th grade.
• Assist in daily client consultations, offering counsel on Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and related legislation.
• Draft legal documents, including motions, pleadings, and correspondence.
• Conduct in-depth legal research on education law, disability rights, and student-related issues.
• Support litigation processes, including preparing for hearings and collaborating with clients, government agencies, and educational institutions.
• Represent clients in matters related to student rights, disability discrimination, and issues before agencies such as the California Department of Education (CDE), Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), and the Federal Office for Civil Rights (OCR).
• Engage in strategic planning and case management with senior attorneys.

Requirements:

• 0-5 years of legal experience in a relevant field.
• Strong research and writing skills, with a focus on education and disability law.
• Ability to communicate effectively and empathetically with clients and stakeholders.
• Prior experience or academic background in special education law or related fields is a plus.

Education:

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

Certifications:

• Must be admitted to practice law in California.

Skills:

• Exceptional legal research and writing capabilities.
• Knowledge of special education law and disability rights.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Job Location: Irvine, CA

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.