Commonwealth Campus Staff Attorney

POSITION SPECIFICS

This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and in-person work. The office is located in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Application Requirements

Only complete applications will be considered. A complete application includes a resume or CV and a cover letter describing your interest in the position.

Position Overview

The Pennsylvania State University, Student Legal Services, is seeking a Staff Attorney to assist in providing legal services and educational programming for students from eligible Commonwealth Campuses. The Commonwealth Campus Staff Attorney will provide advice, document drafting, and referrals to students in a variety of legal matters, including, but not limited to, landlord-tenant disputes, planning documents, contract issues, consumer issues, and limited criminal matters. Representation may be provided in limited situations. Responsibilities also include the preparation of informational brochures and learning modules, the presentation of educational outreach materials, and marketing the service to the campuses. This position will be one of five attorneys in the Student Legal Services office and will be the primary attorney serving Commonwealth Campus students.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice, consultation, and representation to students in both civil and criminal matters;
• Gather and examine evidence;
• Analyze legal issues;
• Research, interpret, and apply statutes, regulations, treaties, University policies, judicial decisions, and administrative opinions
• Determine conflicts of interest and provide referral information
• Represent students during litigation proceedings; determine strategy; draft and file pleadings and other documentation, including subpoenas, complaints, discovery, motions, responses, affidavits, memoranda, and agreements; present and argue cases; negotiate settlements
• Draft simple wills, living wills, and powers of attorney; provide notary service to students
• Help students complete legal forms such as expungement petitions
• Give public presentations; provide outreach to student groups and external organizations
• Develop policies, procedures, and programs related to Student Services; identify internal controls; provide mechanisms to monitor and enforce statutory, regulatory, and ethical mandates/compliance
• Keep abreast of changes in the law; review new statutes, regulations, and opinions; update office publications and processes; attend continuing legal education courses
• Provide oversight for the selection, training, and management of wage payroll and student externs

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Attorney - Student Services - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Juris Doctor (JD) 3+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: Licensed Attorney - Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners

If filled as Attorney - Student Services - Professional, this position requires: Juris Doctor (JD) No prior relevant work experience required Required Certifications: Licensed Attorney - Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $72,300.00 - $122,016.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS