Paralegal, Community Lawyering Initiative
Maryland Legal Aid
Location
Baltimore, MD
Category
Paralegal
Posted
March 31, 2023
Type
Full-Time
Description/Duties
Maryland Legal Aid (MLA) provides life-changing civil legal assistance to eligible residents in every part of the State. Since 1911, MLA has provided high-quality legal services to low-income, and marginalized individuals and communities–helping them remedy their civil legal issues and become empowered to overcome challenges, achieve stability and independence, and an overall better life.
MLA is dedicated to preserving the basic human needs and basic human rights of clients, particularly as they navigate the justice system. MLA staff, pro bono attorneys, community partners, and general supporters all play important roles in ensuring that the legal playing field is leveled so that those most in need achieve equal access to justice. It is because of this diverse support that MLA is able to be a voice to tens of thousands of economically disadvantaged and vulnerable Marylanders every year.
JOB SUMMARY:
MLA announces an immediate opening for a full-time paralegal in Community Lawyering Initiative Unit in Baltimore, Maryland. Under the supervision of an attorney, paralegals are generally expected to handle all functions related to casework from initial intake through representation of clients at administrative and other hearings permitted by law. Paralegals may be expected to work together with attorneys on cases or projects including work on the paralegal’s cases as well as the attorneys’ cases. Some paralegals may perform exclusively or primarily non-casework functions.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct initial and subsequent interviews with clients, both in person during walk-in intake hours and through the centralized telephone intake system as assigned.
- Screen clients for eligibility for MLA services.
- Make referrals, as appropriate.
- Complete intakes, transfer calls and intakes to staff attorneys using MLA’s case management system and telephone program.
- Schedule appointments, hearings, etc.
- As assigned, conduct factual investigations and legal research.
- As assigned, prepare documents and correspondence; and
- Perform other duties, as assigned, within the scope of the essential functions of the position.
- All the above duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation.
Skills/Qualifications
- Proficient written and oral communication skills sufficient to perform the duties of the position.
- Computer skills and experience with Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, SharePoint).
- Proven ability to draft correspondence, good attention to detail, and a willingness to work in all substantive legal areas.
- Strong customer service skills including the ability to empathize and assist people who are distressed.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Commitment to the mission of Maryland Legal Aid.
- Paralegal certification or equivalent experience preferred.
- Spanish language proficiency is desirable.
Compensation
The salary range for this position is $42,713 – $78,713. In addition, MLA provides employees with a generous benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, a 401(k)-retirement plan, 2 weeks paid time off, paid sick leave, 14 annual paid holidays, hybrid work options more!