Upcoming or recent graduates are invited to apply! Apply by September 15 to be given priority consideration!
Job Title: Family Support Staff Attorney
Location: Yakima, Washington
Organization: Central WA Legal Aid (CWLA)
Reports To: Executive Director
Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Salary: $75,000–$90,000, DOE
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and generous paid time off
About Central WA Legal Aid
Central WA Legal Aid is a nonprofit legal organization rooted in Yakima and serving communities across Central Washington, including Benton, Franklin, Grant, and Kittitas counties. We provide free civil legal services to low-income individuals and families, with a particular emphasis on Spanish-speaking, undocumented, and migrant communities. We are committed to anti-racist, trauma-informed legal advocacy, and we aim to shift the culture of the legal system by centering the voices and needs of those most impacted by injustice.
CWLA is a dynamic and growing nonprofit where attorneys are encouraged to use creativity, collaboration, and community partnership to expand access to justice in rural and historically underserved areas.
Position Overview
The Family Support Staff Attorney will play a pivotal role in advancing CWLA’s mission by providing legal representation and assistance to individuals facing family law and domestic violence issues. This position offers significant autonomy to address the evolving needs of our community, particularly among Spanish-speaking and undocumented populations. The attorney will handle cases involving domestic violence, child custody, minor guardianship, and other family-related matters, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive legal support in a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed manner.
No prior experience in family law is required—we will provide training and mentorship for new attorneys and recent graduates. However, we ask for a minimum two-year commitment to live and work in the Yakima area to ensure continuity and connection with the communities we serve.
Core Functions of the Role
Provide legal advice and representation to low-income individuals who are experiencing family violence and domestic legal issues
Prepare and manage a high-volume caseload – this caseload could range from an advice session, preparation of legal documents, or representation in court
Develop and maintain relationships with the court and the community
Participate in the training and support of family law volunteer attorneys
Participate in specialized legal clinics, “know your rights” presentations, and other formal and informal opportunities for low-income individuals to access legal advice and representation; make referrals to other CWLA clinics and programs and community partners to ensure clients have holistic access to legal representation and client services for all civil legal needs
Use, participate in, and cooperate with other programs operated by CWLA to improve existing legal services
Participate in specific and general program volunteer recruitment and CLE trainings
Work with existing and new partner agencies who are focused on services to Latine individuals and survivors of domestic violence
Perform other duties as assigned
Experience and Qualifications
Licensed (or soon to be licensed) to practice law in WA
Knowledge of WA domestic violence and family law, or a commitment to learn this specialized field
Litigation and direct client management experience preferred
Demonstrated experience working directly with low-income clients, individuals from diverse ethnic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds, survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault, or individuals from historically marginalized and oppressed communities
Deep respect for diversity and commitment to advancing CWLA’s mission, including dismantling racism, sexism and other forms of oppression and promoting access to justice for all
Demonstrated experience, familiarity with, and cultural knowledge of Latine communities in the counties served (Yakima, Grant, Benton, Franklin, Kittitas), or the commitment to learn
Demonstrated experience working directly with Spanish-speaking clients and members of the migrant community
Established commitment to providing legal assistance to low-income clients
Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively with others
Strong ability to work collaboratively, build trust and be flexible with colleagues, partners and organizations from a wide range of backgrounds
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Zoom and Legal Server or similar case management software
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits
CWLA offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
CWLA covers bar dues, membership dues, and trainings
Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Flexible working hours
Professional development and mentorship from experienced legal advocates
Opportunities for growth within the organization
Ability to occasionally work from home
A supportive team culture focused on justice, equity, and community service
This position also offers the ability to cross-train and learn the other areas of law practiced by CWLA attorneys: adult guardianships, housing, and immigration.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit the following materials:
Resume highlighting qualifications and professional background
Please send inquiries and/or application materials to info@cwlegalaid.org. Application materials submitted by August 15, 2025, will be given priority.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Central WA Legal Aid is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those who are Spanish-speaking, undocumented, or from underrepresented communities.
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the Family Support Staff Attorney position at CWLA. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the position.
