Staff Attorney at The Community Tax Law Project

The Community Tax Law Project seeks to hire a staff attorney commencing January 1, 2023. Applications are due immediately with applications being reviewed on a rolling basis.

Are you ready for a legal position that will make the difference in the lives of thousands of Virginians? We hope so. The Community Tax Law Project (CTLP) has an immediate opening for a full-time staff attorney who has the passion to make direct a positive impact in the lives of low-income taxpayers.

Employer Description

CTLP is an organization like no other, led from inception by Virginia’s leaders in tax law and policy. Over the course of CTLP’s 30 years of existence, the organization has helped thousands of Virginians get the help they needed to solve their tax issues and make positive financial changes. This position is perfect for someone who truly wishes to make a difference across the Commonwealth. Experience with tax law is not a requirement for this position, as CTLP’s experienced staff and pro bono volunteers will provide training. However, applicants should be attorneys barred in Virginia or attorneys eligible for admission in Virginia, to be obtained within one-year.

CTLP is a nationally-recognized provider of legal services to low-income Virginia taxpayers in disputes with the IRS and/or Virginia Department of Taxation. CTLP also conducts education and outreach about relevant tax issues to special populations including persons re-entering the workforce, immigrant and refugee communities, self-employed and small business owners, domestic abuse survivors, and professionals that serve these populations.

CTLP is a leader in tax policy and legislative initiatives impacting low-income taxpayers. CTLP was the first independent, nonprofit, low-income taxpayer clinic (LITC) in the nation, founded in 1992 by Nina Olson (former IRS National Taxpayer Advocate and current Director of the Center for Taxpayer Rights). From the beginning, CTLP has provided access to tax justice for low to moderate income Virginians that cannot otherwise afford legal representation in their tax disputes, and CTLP aims to continue this service for many more years.

CTLP is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. For more information about The Community Tax Law Project, visit our website at www.ctlp.org.

Description of the Position

The Staff Attorney’s duties will include:

• Representing low-income and ESL taxpayers in tax controversy cases including IRS and Virginia audits, appeals, collections and U.S. Tax Court cases.
• Assisting the Executive Director in developing program initiatives, identifying appropriate cases for referral to pro bono attorneys, identifying systemic case issues, conducting follow-up and seeking guidance as necessary to ensure quality representation of clients.
• Working with the Executive Director in identifying opportunities to coordinate and partner with national, state, and local bar associations, legal aid societies, and other community service organizations in order to provide tax education and representation to target populations.
• Designing and conducting training programs for volunteer attorneys and advocates of low-income persons about relevant tax topics.
• Assisting the Executive Director in providing guidance and oversight to student interns and legal staff and work cooperatively with administrative staff.
• Assisting the Executive Director in maintaining compliance with federal, state, and foundation grant reports.
• Coordinating with the Executive Director to create presentations for national, state, and local tax conferences and addressing national, state, and local bar associations.
• Working actively in bar activities, especially the ABA Tax Section.

Qualifications

A leading candidate for the Staff Attorney position will:

• Be licensed to practice law in Virginia or eligible for admission by waiver
• Be energetic, proactive, and detail-oriented
• Possess advanced written and oral communications skills, excellent organizational skills, and be able to successfully manage multiple priorities.
• Have a strong commitment to public interest work and sensitivity to human needs and diverse communities.
• Have two or more years of experience as a practicing lawyer. Prior experience in tax controversy practice either through private or government employment, a low-income taxpayer clinic, or a student clinic is preferred but not required.
• Have the ability to travel and represent CTLP at conferences and meetings from time to time.

Spanish, Arabic, or Asian language fluency is a positive factor.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for this position starts at $60,000/ yr., with some flexibility depending on experience. A competitive benefits package will be offered, with immediate health care coverage. Furthermore, the employer qualifies for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should e-mail a resume, references, and a statement of interest to the attention of “Hiring Manager” at [email protected].