Staff Attorney, Public Benefits

About the role

The Staff Attorney, Public Benefits will focus on Medicaid and other public benefits matters for low‑income clients throughout Montana. The attorney will provide legal advice, limited‑scope assistance, and full representation in administrative hearings and court proceedings.

Key responsibilities

• Interview, advise, and represent eligible clients on civil matters related to Medicaid and public benefits.
• Develop and maintain specialized knowledge of Montana Medicaid and other public benefit programs.
• Provide services ranging from brief counsel to extended representation for MLSA clients.
• Collaborate with MLSA’s Medical Legal Partnership practice group and assist with evaluation and data collection.
• Draft correspondence, pleadings, and other legal documents.
• Research legal issues and prepare memoranda.
• Travel to community organizations to conduct training and deliver legal services.
• Recruit, train, and support pro bono attorneys as needed.
• Participate in statewide initiatives, implement grant and contract requirements, and perform other duties assigned by supervisors.

Required profile

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
• Admission to the Montana Bar or ability to obtain admission.
• Strong legal research, writing, and advocacy skills.
• Commitment to serving low‑income, rural, and underserved populations.
• Willingness to manage a varied caseload and travel statewide, occasionally overnight.

Required skills

• Legal research and writing.
• Advocacy in administrative hearings and court proceedings.
• Client counseling and representation.