Paralegal Advocate

1. Represents clients within the entire CLS service area which may require frequent travel throughout the ServiceArea.

2. Determines client eligibility for legal services in accordance with program policies and procedures.

3. Gathers information interviews clients and witnesses; investigates and develops cases; prepares written reports to attorneys detailing the results of the investigation.

4. Makes and follows up on referrals of clients to appropriate alternative or additional sources of assistance.

5. Works jointly in partnership with supervising attorney on assigned cases.

6. Represents clients at administrative hearings within the guidelines governing advocacy by non-attorneys.

7. Maintains accurate complete well-organized case/project records and files.

8. Performs legal research including use of computer-based databasese.g. Lexis and computerized practiceSoftware.

9. Participates in outreach to clients and community groups.

10. As requested participates in fundraising activities and public relations.

11. May participate in the orientation and training of employees.

12. Keeps abreast of new areas of the law particularly as it affects low-income persons.

13. Serves process and executes appropriate affidavits of service; serves witness subpoenas and other papersas requested files legal papers with appropriate courts.

14. Actively participates in umbrella groups and task forces.

15. Greets clients applicants and other visitors to the office in a courteous and polite manner.

16. Answers telephones and refers callers to appropriate staff members otherCLS offices or otheragencies as appropriate.

17. Opens mail and provides other clerical services as necessary.

18. May perform duties of the work of higher or lower classified positions as assigned

REQUIREMENTS

1. Commitment

a. Demonstratingcommitment to promoting the mission vision and values of CLS.

b. Unwavering dedication to high-quality legal programs fiscal strength and organizational integrity.

2. Background and Experience

a. Legal Studies Education and/or Paralegal certification.

b. Law firm experience (2years) experience in support of litigation and commitment working with low-income and/or vulnerable clients and communities on civil legal matters also a plus.

c. Bilingual (English Spanish; spoken and written fluency) preferred.

d. Excellent phone manner and professional customer service ability required with superior organizational and highly polished communication and writing skills.

e. Must be a self-motivated professional and capable of independently managing workload and prioritizing tasks in a fast-paced legal environment with minimal supervision.

f. Microsoft Office Suite proficiency required.

g. Ability to perform duties and attend meetings and/or other functions throughout 12 county service area.

h. Valid Florida automobile license use of own auto and proof of insurance necessary.

i. Ability to work independently.

j. Available to travel work weekends and evenings.

3.Physical Requirements

a. Prolongedperiodssitting at a desk and working on a computer.

b. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times.

Starting Salary: $50000 more with experience

GENERAL STATEMENT

CLS is an Equal Opportunity Employer: We value a diverse workforce and the promotion of inclusive culture at all levels.

CLS does not discriminate against any employee or qualified applicant for employment from all qualified individuals on the basis of age race color creed national origin ancestry marital or familial status affectional or sexual orientation gender identity or expression sex disability socio-economic position religion political belief protected genetic information military or veteran status or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal or State law.

The statements contained in this job description reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job the level of knowledge and skill typicallyrequired and the scope of responsibility. It should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise to balance theworkload.