Paralegal- Housing Law

POSITION SUMMARY:

This is an entry-level professional paralegal position defined by the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar (RRTFB) as “a person with education, training, or work experience, who works under the direction and supervision of an employing or supervising lawyer and who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which an employing or supervising lawyer is responsible.” Paralegals in this position require more oversight from a licensed attorney as they develop expertise in the assigned substantive area.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. To be knowledgeable and abide by the rules and regulations promulgated by the Florida Bar relative to the unauthorized practice of law and the functions which nonlawyer personnel may perform in a law office.

2. Interviews clients in the office and at outreach sites and elsewhere, if necessary, to gather

information, facts, witness and other relevant data.

3. Documents client and client related calls in case files and Legal Server system. Notifies attorney of all documentation.

4. Determines applicants’ eligibility; schedules client appointments as needed for service unit; checks for possible client conflicts; enters client data into case management system as needed.

5. Under attorney supervision, drafts letters, memoranda, pleadings, briefs and other documents as needed on case.

6. Under attorney supervision, prepares routine legal documents for hearings, service of process, subpoenas, summons, indigency documents, etc. Prepares all copies and scanning for all needed case files to attorney assigned folder and/or scan folder.

7. Performs timely and thorough legal research.

8. Establishes contact with social and regulatory agencies for the exchange of relevant information.

9. Speaks to client-oriented groups as directed.

10. Keeps abreast of substantive and procedural aspects of poverty law and a wide range of available social services.

11. Develops expertise in specific areas of law as assigned.

12. Assists in the preparation of service/grant reports as required.

13. Prepares complex documents under attorney supervision.

14. Performs other duties as assigned by GLS.

BASIC STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE:

1. Satisfactory attendance and punctuality.

2. Compliance with all Gulfcoast Legal Services policies and procedures.

3. Familiarity with and adherence to the organization’s mission.

4. Satisfactory completion of duties and responsibilities of the position as required by management and supervisors.

5. Performs related work as required and fills in for positions above and below in the event of

staffing shortages.

SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

1. Knowledge of basic office procedures, including Legal Server data entry, reporting and use of multi-line phone system and basic office equipment, including copier, fax, postage meter and computer to perform daily office work.

2. Strong communication skills, both oral and written required.

3. Ability to deal professionally, courteously and efficiently with people and clients in crisis.

4. Ability to work independently and be detail oriented.

5. Ability to maintain client confidentiality.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

1. Prior experience in a clerical or administrative support position required; two years as a legal secretary preferred.

2. Demonstrated knowledge of legal terminology and processes.

3. Associates degree or higher in paralegal studies or related field OR a high school diploma or equivalency with at least three years of related experience as a legal secretary or legal assistant.

4. Professional demeanor in working with clients in person or by telephone and in working with other GLS staff and the community.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

1. Ability to work on various projects with different priorities.

2. Ability to answer phones, operate Microsoft computer applications and communicate effectively both written and orally.

3. Ability to work overtime when required.

4. Ability to lift and/or carry office supplies, equipment, files, etc. up to 10 lbs.

5. Valid Florida driver’s license and ability to circulate outreach materials in the community and to local, community partner agencies.

Gulfcoast Legal Services (GLS) is an equal opportunity employer. We offer generous paid time off, an excellent benefits package, 2% retirement match after 1 year, flexible schedules, paid holidays and professional development assistance. GLS is a PSLF qualifying employer. Salary: $19.70 to $26.05/hour depending on experience. Candidate must complete an application and pass a background screening before employment can begin. GLS is a non-profit agency and relies on grant funding. Continued employment is contingent upon grant funding.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.70 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Travel reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Paralegal: 5 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person