Bayou City Waterkeeper (BCWK) seeks an early-career lawyer to join our team as a full-time Legal Fellow for two years. The Fellow will help BCWK use the law to advance a community-driven vision of water justice for the greater Houston region. The Fellow is expected to start by 9/5.

Job Description

The Legal Fellow will report directly to our Legal Director and support our ongoing legal work and related advocacy, helping us use bold action to advance water, climate, and infrastructure justice across greater Houston. As one of two lawyers on staff, the Legal Fellow will represent BCWK incivil litigation and administrative proceedings, analyze legal strategies for BCWK and our partners, write public comments, help translate our legal work through communications and education, and represent BCWK in coalitions.

The Legal Fellow will join our team for a two-year term. This is intended as an entry-level position, but lawyers with any level of experience are welcome to apply.

The Fellow will receive hands-on legal work and related advocacy experience, as well as regular feedback, mentoring, and training.

About Bayou City Waterkeeper

Bayou City Waterkeeper is a water justice organization working across the Lower Galveston Bay watershed that encompasses greater Houston, for more than two decades. With law and science, we work with local communities to build power, fill gaps in regulatory enforcement, and push back against water injustices and irresponsible development. Our key program areas are Clean Water, Protecting Wetlands, and Just Climate Transitions. Learn more on our website.

Our Values

Recognizing the complexities of our watershed, the challenges we face to protect our waters from the harms of urban development and industrial activities, and the importance of being responsive to the needs of the communities we serve, our work is guided and informed by five values:

● Interconnectivity: Collaborate across disciplines and create multiple ways to engage

● Fluidity: Embrace movement and adaptability in our work

● Bold action: Have hard conversations, disrupt dysfunctional systems, create new

frameworks, bring together unconventional allies, and move data and research into action

● Justice and equality: Call out and act to undo inequities in our watershed

● Regeneration: Embrace water as a site for healing, joy, celebration, reflection, and growth

2010 North Loop West, Ste 103 ∙ Houston, TX 77018 ∙ www.bayoucitywaterkeeper.org

Responsibilities

● Manage day-to-day legal work relating to sewage and stormwater pollution, wastewater

and stormwater permits, and other unpermitted pollution

● Research and analyze legal issues and help formulate strategies, set priorities, and

investigate and enforce legal violations across greater Houston

● Respond to community members confronting water-related issues, connect them to

resources and solutions, and help integrate their priorities into broader strategies

● In litigation, research legal issues and investigate facts; prepare Board litigation requests;

identify and interview members and draft standing declarations; write briefs, motions, and

memoranda; appear in court and argue; communicate with opposing counsel and

partners; and engage in discovery and review documents

● Work with science and policy staff, partners, and community members to draft written and

oral comments for permits, rulemakings, and environment review documents

● Create and deliver presentations related to our legal work to community groups, partners,

and the Legal Circle in person and virtually and support legal-related communications

● Represent BCWK in local and regional partnerships

● File, track, review, and analyze information requests

Qualifications & Requirements

Candidates must have the following to be considered for the role:

● Juris Doctor by May 2023; and

● Admission to the State of Texas bar or plans to sit for the Texas bar exam in July 2023.

Highly competitive candidates will also have some combination of:***

● Demonstrated interest in building litigation skills, through law school clinic experience,

judicial clerkship, or litigation-oriented work, including internships or work as a paralegal

● Commitment to developing strong legal writing, analysis, and oral advocacy skills

● Comfort interpreting scientific and technical concepts

● Ability to translate legal and technical concepts to community members and partners

● Understanding of lawyers’ role in community-centered advocacy and familiarity with

movement lawyering, environmental justice, and just-climate-transitions concepts

● Commitment to deep listening to and with members of impacted communities and ability

to build trust with and nurture equitable relationships with community members

● Commitment to supporting impacted communities

● Commitment to racial justice, anti-racism, and understanding of and commitment to using

anti-racist lens in advancing justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility

● Strong interpersonal skills, self-awareness, and enthusiasm for teamwork

● Self-motivation, creativity, organizational skills, and a diligent and efficient work ethic

● Spanish fluency

● A love for our region

***Research shows that women and people of color are more hesitant to apply for a job because

they may not meet all of the qualifications listed. The candidate hired may not precisely meet all

of these qualifications, but will show the desire and capacity to grow into the role and fit within

our small, close-knit team. If you feel passionate about our efforts and believe you have the skills

to contribute to the growth of our organization, we want to hear from you.

Schedule/Location

We allow for flexible work schedules so our staff can be responsive to community needs and

balance work and personal responsibilities. Our standard week is 36-40 hours. Occasionally, more

than a regular week, including some evenings and weekends, will be necessary. Some local travel

is required. Our staff meets in person once per week, and when necessary or beneficial, the Legal

Fellow will be expected to appear in court, meet with partners, or attend other events in person

(COVID permitting). Otherwise, our work is virtual. Given the place-based, community-centered

nature of this work, the Legal Fellow must live within the Lower Galveston Bay watershed.

Salary & Benefits

$60,000. Benefits include: unlimited paid leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave;

subsidized group healthcare, dental, and vision coverage; BCWK-funded IRA contribution; and

negotiable flex hours. This is a full-time, at-will, exempt position.

Application Instructions

For equal consideration, please send a resume and letter explaining your interest to

careers@bayoucitywaterkeeper.org with subject line “BCWK Legal Fellow” by March 10, 2023.

The interview process will include three stages. A final decision is expected by the end of May.

The Fellow is expected to start by September 5 but may start as early as June 1, if they already

have passed the Bar exam.

Our core values lead us to seek a broad range of perspectives and backgrounds to achieve our

mission and maintain an inclusive environment where all staff are valued and respected. As an

equal opportunity employer, we are committed to employment practices that ensure that

employees and applicants for employment are given equal opportunities without regard to race,

color, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition,

veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression,

genetic information or any other factor that is not related to the position.

• Juris doctorate from a recognized law school
• Active bar membership
• 4-6 years relevant legal experience in securities, corporate, finance and/or corporate governance in law firm or in-house legal department

 Houston Volunteer Lawyers (HVL), the pro bono service arm of the Houston Bar Association, provides free civil legal services to low-income individuals who need assistance with criminal expunctions, family law, guardianship, estate planning, probate, tax disputes with the IRS, landlord/tenant disputes, homeownership, consumer issues, and bankruptcy matters. HVL looks to hire an attorney.

This position requires a high degree of professionalism and self-motivation. Key Areas of Responsibilities • Deliver client-centered legal services at a fast-paced non-profit legal organization. •

Recruit and mentor pro bono attorneys who assist HVL clients. • Develop partnerships to reach target individuals in need of free legal services. Education and Experience Required • Juris Doctor and State Bar licensure in Texas, in good standing. • Excellent time management & prioritization skills. • Strong legal analysis skills, writing skills, and communication skills. • Comfort with working with those in recovery at drug treatment centers, resource centers, and specialized courts. •

Ability to engage compassionately with individuals facing barriers accessing legal services. • One-year litigation experience.

To Apply Submit a Cover Letter, Resume, and three Professional References to recruitment@hvlp.org.

Priority will be given to individuals who apply by February 6. Annual Salary and Benefits

This position is a full-time position. Salary is $71,000 – $80,000 commensurate with experience.

Benefits include health, vision and dental insurance; a 401k defined contribution retirement plan; paid State of Texas Bar dues and Houston Bar Association dues, professional development training.

HVL’s current policy is to permit its attorneys to work three days from the office and two days’ remotely. Houston Volunteer Lawyers is committed to equal opportunity.

HVL not discriminate against any person based on actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, ability, gender, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or other characteristics protected by law. Applicants committed to justice and equality from all backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and identities

Law firm specializing in complex litigation with a focus on employment class actions/collective actions, medical malpractice and mass torts has an opening for a licensed litigation associate with 2+ years of experience. This position involves litigation across the country and regular appearances in federal court.  Friendly working environment with casual attire. 

Job Purpose:
Litigate and represent clients while leading a team of legal assistants and law clerks.

Duties:
* Assist in the litigation of complex legal matters, including presenting and taking depositions, drafting legal motions, and arguing in court.

* Manage cases through discovery, mediation, trial, and settlement.

* Provide clients with legal advice by conducting legal research and staying abreast of case developments.

* Supervise a team of legal assistants and law clerks and provide legal guidance; monitor case progress; maintain quality service.

Skills/Qualifications:
Federal practice experience is preferred 

2+ years of prior legal experience 

Research Skills, Written Communication Skills, Presentation Skills, Knowledge of Litigation Practices, Client Contact Skills, Planning, Good Attitude

Salary:  $100,000.00 base salary plus attractive performance bonuses and includes 401(k), Health, Vision and Dental Insurance, Paid holidays and Paid Time Off; Free parking; Bar Dues and CLE Allowance

Experience Required:    2+ years

Education Required:      Juris Doctorate

Job Type:                             Full Time Employee

THIS IS NOT A REMOTE POSITION

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

Send resume to:kblack@hftrialfirm.com

Law firm specializing in complex litigation with a focus on employment class actions/collective actions, medical malpractice and mass torts has an opening for a licensed litigation associate with 2+ years of experience. This position involves litigation across the country and regular appearances in federal court.  Friendly working environment with casual attire. 

Job Purpose:
Litigate and represent clients while leading a team of legal assistants and law clerks.

Duties:
* Assist in the litigation of complex legal matters, including presenting and taking depositions, drafting legal motions, and arguing in court.

* Manage cases through discovery, mediation, trial, and settlement.

* Provide clients with legal advice by conducting legal research and staying abreast of case developments.

* Supervise a team of legal assistants and law clerks and provide legal guidance; monitor case progress; maintain quality service.

Skills/Qualifications:
Federal practice experience is preferred 

2+ years of prior legal experience 

Research Skills, Written Communication Skills, Presentation Skills, Knowledge of Litigation Practices, Client Contact Skills, Planning, Good Attitude

Salary:  $100,000.00 base salary plus attractive performance bonuses and includes 401(k), Health, Vision and Dental Insurance, Paid holidays and Paid Time Off; Free parking; Bar Dues and CLE Allowance

Experience Required:    2+ years

Education Required:      Juris Doctorate

Job Type:                             Full Time Employee

THIS IS NOT A REMOTE POSITION

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

Send resume to:kblack@hftrialfirm.com

y now »

Staff Attorney - Litigation

Requisition Number:  6123

Pay Rate:  PGR14

Description: 

Basic Function

Provides sound, ethical, reliable, professional advice and counsel, and legal representation to METRO, primarily in the areas of personal injury and recovery of property damage. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures. 

Responsibilities and Specific Duties

• Represents the agency in litigation and other proceedings before courts primarily concerning personal injury and property damage claims.
• Provides legal advice and counsel to management, including risk management and other departments, regarding potential and actual claims and other matters.
• Negotiates disputes and analyzes liability or litigation exposure.
• Provides well-reasoned, thorough legal opinions and guidance on various legal matters affecting METRO.
• Advises and recommends safety and other procedures to reduce litigation risk.
• Conducts depositions and participates in mediations.
• Conducts legal research on a variety of topics and issues related to current and potential litigation matters
• Assists in the drafting of motions, briefs, memoranda of law, and other legal documents
• Manages and organizes discovery requests and responses.
• Assists General Counsel with legal issues, maintains strict confidentiality and discretion in all aspects of representation
• Advocates for METRO’s interests in public forums when necessary, including public hearings, administrative proceedings, congressional proceedings, local or state governmental proceedings, and any other necessary forum
• Exhibits exemplary teamwork and spirit of common purpose in the Legal Department
• Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education Requirement

Doctor of Jurisprudence degree is required.

Years & Experience Required

Minimum three (3) years’ experience in litigation practice and personal injury jury trial experience; first chair experience preferred; extensive deposition experience.

Knowledge & Skills Required

Active license to practice law in the State of Texas.  Knowledge of Texas rules of civil procedures, policies and other legal and court procedures, terminology, and documents; knowledge of the Texas Tort Claims Act; excellent research and writing skills.

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.

https://career4.successfactors.com/careers?company=harrismetr

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Email:  jonny.havens@havenspllc.com

Basic Function

Provides sound, ethical, reliable, professional legal advice and counsel to the Metropolitan Transit Authority.  Performs duties with utmost care and attention in reviewing legal matters. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties

• Develops terms and conditions of contracts for all assigned procurement projects
• Negotiates, drafts, and/or reviews transactions, contracts, agreements, memorandums of understanding, and various other legal documents
• Researches legal issues related to transit law, administrative law, public law, regulatory or contractual matters
• Drafts and reviews scope of services, requests for proposals, requests for qualifications and other procurement related documents
• Reviews federal and state legislative language and researches its effect on METRO, and drafts alternative language if needed
• Provides advice and counsel during transactional/contract development drafting and negotiations regarding potential or actual disputes, legal issues, liability and analyzes liability or litigation exposure
• Researches, drafts, and develops agency guidelines and policies
• Assists litigation counsel in contract or transactional claim development, defense or prosecution
• Provides advice and counsel to Records Management division regarding METRO’s compliance with the Local Government Records Act
• Provides advice and counsel to Open Records division regarding METRO’s compliance with the Texas Public Information Act including drafting briefs to the Attorney General
• Assists General Counsel with legal issues related to METRO board governance matters Maintains strict confidentiality and discretion in all aspects of client representation
• Advocates for METRO’s interests in public forums when necessary, including public hearings, administrative proceedings, congressional proceedings, local or state governmental proceedings, and any other necessary forum
• Exhibits exemplary teamwork and spirit of common purpose in the Legal Department
• Provides well-reasoned, thorough legal opinions and guidance on all legal matters affecting METRO
• Assists and advises in regulatory and compliance audits as well as guidelines and procedures to all business partners
• Assists METRO clients to ensure compliance with federal, state, county, and local codes, laws, rules, guidelines, and regulations
• Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education Requirement

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university or school of law. Doctor of Jurisprudence preferred.

Years & Experience Required

Three (3) years’ experience in the practice of law; some experience in public law, contract law, transactional development drafting and negotiations preferred.

Knowledge & Skills Required

Active license to practice law in the State of Texas.  Knowledge of legal and court procedures, terminology, and documents; Governmental and/or administrative contract and transactional experience preferred.

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.

Questions:  Elonda.Dennis@ridemetro.org

Plaintiff's personal injury law firm seeking attorney with 2-5 years' litigation experience. Opportunity to learn and work cases from inception through trial as second chair and eventually lead counsel. Essential skills include strong writing, research, and interpersonal. Bilingual English/Spanish preferred. Salary and compensation commensurate with experience and ability.

Send Resume to sarah@thecallahanlawfirm.com

Position Description

Resource Attorneys will be primary liaisons between the MAC Office and individual courts. Resource Attorneys  will be responsible for managing assignments of attorneys deemed eligible to accept misdemeanor appointments, review of their financial vouchers, monitoring adherence to time standards for case processing, and assistance with problem resolution in discovery, litigation, or trial issues. 

The Resource Attorney will be one of four, providing a ratio of one resource attorney in direct management of teams of attorneys from the MAC appointment list. They will do conflict resolution on behalf of attorneys between clients, prosecutors, or judges should they arise. Resource attorneys will be available to sit with attorneys as first or second chair counsel if necessary. Resource Attorneys  will be responsible for monitoring and maintaining legal resources made available through the MAC for attorneys in their work of appointed cases only. Resource Attorneys will assist both the Misdemeanor Division Chief & Training Director with training duties as needed and Deputy Director with operational duties as needed. 

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Manages assignments of attorneys deemed eligible to accept misdemeanor appointments.
• Reviews financial claims and adherences to time standards for case processing.
• Manages problem resolution in discovery, litigation, or trial issues as well as conflict resolution on behalf of the court appointed attorneys between clients, prosecutors, or judges should they arise.
• Monitors and maintains legal resources made available through the MAC.
• Assists Misdemeanor Division Chief & Training Director & Deputy Director with training and operational duties as needed.
• Possesses a solid understanding of Texas criminal law, procedure, and evidence.
• Manages and teaches other attorneys; practices law in a large institutional environment. 
• Displays deep knowledge of trial skills as well as the ability to teach them. 

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
  https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
 If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email 

ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.