Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee & the Cumblerlands.
ERTC Paralegal
Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee & the Cumblerlands.
Job Summary
Who We Are
Legal Aid Society’s mission is to advance, defend, and enforce the legal rights of low-income and vulnerable people in order to secure for them the basic necessities of life. Our staff includes national authorities in the fields of domestic violence, housing, consumer law, federal income taxation, health advocacy, non-profit group representation, social security, and special education.
The Opportunity
The Eviction Right to Counsel Program is a grant-funded project where low- and moderate-income tenants facing eviction receive legal representation to ensure equity and inclusion in the legal system. The Eviction Right to Counsel Paralegal will work with eligible clients and support 2-4 housing attorneys. Duties include, but are not limited to, serving tenants facing eviction as well as applicants denied housing, accompanying clients to court, assisting with trial preparation, and assisting with other tasks as needed. The Eviction Right to Counsel Paralegal provides case management assistance to case handlers through the preparation of legal documents and preliminary research, as well as conducting client intake and interviews and assisting with outreach. This position is funded in part by and in collaboration with one or more grants. This position is funded for the duration of the grant and subsequent renewal may result in modification of job duties and responsibilities.
Job Responsibilities
Responsibilities Include:
- Prepare affidavits, legal correspondence, advice letters, pleadings, and other documents for review by case handlers.
- Assist in trial preparation by organizing exhibits and attending court or administrative hearings.
- Communicate with clients about upcoming court dates and deadlines, or to provide advice or information from attorneys.
- Promptly and accurately assist case handlers with client meetings, research, case management, filings, and other tasks.
- Create and maintain positive working relationships with organizations in the service area and state which would benefit the client population.
- Participate in the firm’s community education program by being available to assist at the ERTC court help desk, speak with community groups and agency staff, conduct general outreach, and suggest ideas for and help to prepare and update community education materials.
- Maintain accurate and orderly client files, adhering to case management database policies and guidelines.
- Create and maintain positive working relationships with organizations in the service area and state which would benefit the client population.
- Assist with client intakes and walk-ins as needed.
Qualifications
- Minimum High School diploma or GED. Associate’s degree or Paralegal certificate preferred.
- 2 years prior experience working in a law office, court, social service agency, or other relevant setting preferred.
- Experience working with low-income people.
- Basic proficiency in Windows and Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel software.
- Effective oral and written communication skills, including in client interviews and helping persons in crisis.
- Proficiency in the use of office equipment (copiers, scanners, facsimile, postage machine, etc.).
- Fluency in written and spoken Spanish or Arabic is a plus.
- Driver’s license and reliable transportation.
LASMTC is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from people of color, people with disabilities, women, LBGTQIA+, and gender non-conforming applicants.
Additional Information
Benefits
Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance coverage first day of employment. Life Insurance, Healthcare Savings Account, Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligible, 401k plan, Vacation/Sick/Holiday Leave.
How to Apply
Required: Cover Letter, Resume, and Three References
Careers
Details
- Date Posted: November 10, 2024
- Type: Full-Time
- Job Function: Legal
- Service Area: Housing
- Start Date: 12/02/2024
- Salary Range: $45,000- $51,000
- Working Hours: 40 hrs/wk M-F, 8:00am - 4:30pm