A new position for an attorney to advise and represent military veterans is being established by the Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago. Applications will be accepted through Monday, April 23.

Anticipated legal matters include claims for disability benefits with the Veteran's Administration, employment for returning veterans, and homelessness and the threat of homelessness.

“Since attorney fees are limited to $10 on initial claims, very few attorneys handle these cases unless on a pro bono basis,” said David R. Bryant of the ISBA General Practice, Solo and Small Firm Section Council.

“Returning Illinois vets from Iraq and Afghanistan need this help,” he added, and the LAF needs financial contributions to support hiring the full-time attorney who will be devoted to veterans' benefit claims.

The attorney chosen for the Veterans Law Project (VLP) will screen and advise eligible clients about legal rights, will handle a reasonable caseload, will work with pro bono volunteers, and may engage in negotiations, trials and appeals.

Requirements include at least two years of legal experience, and the ability to exercise initiative, sound judgment and creativity in resolving problems.

An applicant should provide a cover letter, resume, transcript, and names of two work-related references. The materials should be sent to the Legal Assistance Foundation, Attn: Veteran's Law Hiring Committee, Suite 300, 111 W. Jackson, Chicago 60604.