Client Assistance, Services & Engagement (CASE) Team Staff Attorney Position

Disability Rights North Carolina (DRNC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is the only organization that provides free legal advocacy services to people with all types of disabilities, of all ages, throughout North Carolina. We are the state’s designated Protection and Advocacy agency and a recognized leader in advancing disability rights, with a strong staff and supportive, dynamic work environment. DRNC is well established and positioned for growth. Learn more at www.disabilityrightsnc.org.

Position Overview

Disability Rights North Carolina (DRNC) seeks a passionate, skilled, client-centered and advocacy-driven Staff Attorney to serve as a frontline advocate for people with disabilities across North Carolina. This role is ideal for an attorney who values direct client engagement, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is committed to advancing civil and human rights through trauma-informed, culturally responsive legal advocacy.

As a Staff Attorney, you will be a critical access point to services – listening to individuals, supporting intake advocates and attorneys, identifying legal issues, providing timely legal advice, and helping determine pathways for further advocacy or extended representation.

This person will work under the general supervision of the Director of Constituent Services. The position is classified as exempt from overtime pay under federal Department of Labor regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Work and communicate directly with individuals applying for services through online intake submissions, email, voicemail, and incoming phone calls to identify legal issues and determine appropriate next steps.
• Provide legal advice and short-term self-advocacy assistance through scheduled intake-attorney appointments and related communications, including walking applicants or clients through legal options, strategies, and next steps as appropriate based on scope, time, and workload.
• Quickly spot and analyze legal issues and provide clear, high-quality legal advice and information in a fast-paced environment.
• Draft well-written letters, documents, and other materials following client interviews in a timely manner, and share DRNC-published materials for public use when appropriate.
• Work collaboratively with DRNC legal staff and advocates to identify areas requiring further inquiry and determine which cases are suitable for extended representation.
• Conduct legal research and analyze relevant statutes, regulations, and other legal authority.
• Maintain outstanding case management and organizational practices, including accurate documentation and deadline tracking.
• Use case management systems, databases, and other technology tools throughout the workday to document client interactions, manage intake matters, track deadlines, and comply with organizational and funder requirements.
• Work efficiently with a high degree of accuracy and professionalism, exercising sound, independent judgment with appropriate supervision.
• Communicate effectively, including the ability to listen carefully and ask probing questions to elicit relevant information from potential clients.
• Meet deadlines and manage multiple tasks with strong attention to detail.
• Assist the Criminal Legal Team with managing and responding to correspondence from facility residents.
• Participate in outreach activities to underserved populations.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in North Carolina, or has taken steps toward NC licensure.
• Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of Disability Rights North Carolina and to the civil rights of people with disabilities.
• Ability to integrate trauma-informed practices into legal advocacy to strengthen client engagement and reduce re-traumatization.

Desirable Qualifications

• Lived experience with a disability.
• Ability to communicate in Spanish and/or American Sign Language (ASL).
• Demonstrated passion for direct client services, advocacy, or social justice work.
• Experience in a nonprofit or public interest legal setting.
• Experience advocating for or working alongside people with disabilities.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and professional growth.

Salary and Benefits: The salary starts at $ $63,000 and increases based on experience. DRNC offers benefits that are a 100% employer-paid. They include health, dental, vision, life and disability as well as generous paid time off and retirement plan with an employer match.

To Apply: Send a detailed letter of interest explaining your qualifications and interest in the position and resume to resumes.hr@disabilityrightsnc.org. Please include Staff Attorney – CASE Team in the subject line of the email.

Priority will be given to applications received by February 27, 2026. Position will remain open until filled.