Paralegal
Maryland Legal Aid
Location
Frederick, 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 position in the Midwestern Maryland office located in Frederick, 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. Tasks assigned to paralegals may include any or all but are not limited to the following:
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Screen clients for eligibility.
- Conduct preliminary and subsequent interviews with clients.
- Make referrals, as appropriate.
- Schedule appointments, hearings, etc.
- Conduct factual investigation and legal research.
- Prepare documents and correspondence.
- Assist in or develop case theory and strategy for the representation of clients.
- Provide community and institutional outreach and education.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- All of the above duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation.
Skills/Qualifications
- Ability to use a computer, web-based applications, and computer programs such as Office 365 including Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Excellent research, critical thinking, writing, and communication skills.
- Self-starter with ability to juggle multiple priorities and meet regular deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to provide quality legal advocacy and representation for low-income, diverse client base.
- Ability to travel locally and regionally in Maryland as needed.
- Knowledge of Westlaw Edge or other legal research software.
- Prior experience and/or interest in providing nonprofit legal services is a plus.
- 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!