Description
Summit Legal Aid is a non-profit organization in the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network (PLAN) that provides free legal services to low-income residents in a ten-county region. Our mission is to provide civil justice to vulnerable people in need of legal help. Our services empower our clients by keeping families protected, homes secured, and finances stabilized. We are currently seeking a staff attorney based in our Johnstown office.
As a member of our team, you will work with our attorneys to:
- Advise and advocate for parents and other custodians in family matters related to child custody, child support, and divorce
- Advise and advocate for petitioners for protection from abuse, sexual violence, and intimidation
- Advise and advocate for our clients in other civil matters, such as housing
- Maintain a commitment to advocate for the rights of our low-income community
This position will be full-time with benefits but with prohibition against the outside practice of paralegal services. Flexible work schedules are permitted, when possible, though court appearances will be required as determined by the Courts of Common Pleas and local Magisterial District Courts. A license to practice in Pennsylvania or sitting for the July 2026 Pennsylvania bar examination is required.
At Summit Legal Aid, we recognize and promote the collective and individual benefits for all clients, staff, and partners to seek equal justice for every person, regardless of race, color, creed, marital status, national origin, religion, sex, or disability. Our team aspires to reach, include, and serve all potential clients throughout our service area, with a focus on those who may be most vulnerable and underserved.
The starting salary will be at least $71,250 and will depend on experience, subject to a collective bargaining agreement, as the position is within the National Organization of Legal Services Workers Union. Health, dental, and vision coverage is available for all full-time employees and eligible dependents. A life insurance plan is provided for each full-time employee, paid entirely by Summit Legal Aid. A voluntary 403(b) retirement contribution is available, including up to 8% employer contribution, after one year of employment.
Some attorneys are eligible for student loan repayment and/or forgiveness through:
Pa. Bar Foundation: https://www.pabar.org/site/Foundation/What-We-Do/PA-IOLTA-Loan-Repayment-Assistance
Legal Services Corporation: https://lsc.gov/grants/loan-repayment-assistance-program
U.S. Department of Education: https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service
