Staff Attorney – Public Benefits

Community Legal Aid SoCal

Public Benefits Staff Attorney providing legal representation and legal services for low-income residents in California. Advocating for individuals facing challenges with federal and state public benefits and systemic issues.

Posted 6/19/2026full-timeSanta Ana • California • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $80,000 - $98,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Represent clients in public benefits matters, including SSI, SSDI, UIB, CalFresh, CalWORKs, General Relief, and CAPI
Counsel and advocate for clients through administrative processes
Litigate cases in state and federal court
Manage all aspects of casework
Maintain accurate case records, notes, and timekeeping
Engage in policy advocacy and collaborate with community partners
Conduct community outreach and deliver educational presentations
Supervise and direct the legal work of paralegals, law students, interns, and volunteers
Work with a multi-cultural perspective

Requirements

What you’ll need

Juris Doctor degree and an active member in good-standing of the California Bar or member of another state bar and ability to register as a legal services provider
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation with the ability to travel regularly throughout the service area
Knowledge of Social Security law, including rules and regulations governing Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance
Knowledge of CalFresh, CalWORKs, California Unemployment Insurance Benefits, CAPI, and General Relief - Preferred
Experience with Administrative Law, as well as State and Federal Appeals - Preferred
Strong technical skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Teams)

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

Juris Doctor degreeSocial Security lawAdministrative LawState AppealsFederal Appeals

Soft Skills

advocacycounselingcase managementcommunity outreachsupervisioncollaborationpresentation skills

Certifications

California Bar membershiplegal services provider registration