Paralegal- Veterans Rights Project, Public Benefits Group
For more than 50 years, LAF has provided people living in poverty in metropolitan Chicago with comprehensive free legal services to resolve non-criminal issues. Each year LAF’s full-time attorneys and staff help resolve civil legal problems, including domestic violence, consumer fraud, and unfair evictions.
Position: LAF has received a grant under the Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid Network (IL-AFLAN) to provide comprehensive legal services to veterans and servicemembers. LAF is seeking a full-time paralegal to support the provision of legal assistance to veterans and servicemembers, and to assist with intake, outreach, organization, and running the veterans clinic.
Responsibilities: The paralegal will work with other Veterans Rights Project staff to provide civil legal aid to veterans and servicemembers, including in the areas of VA benefits, public benefits, housing, family law, and consumer law. The paralegal will be the main point of contact for the new IL-AFLAN client hotline, and will assist in getting records, running the veterans clinic, factual and legal research, organizing materials electronically, and performing community outreach, among other responsibilities.
Qualifications: Applicants must have a college degree, excellent oral and written skills, and a commitment to social justice. Basic internet and computer skills are required, including familiarity with such programs as Adobe, MS Word, Outlook, and Excel. Good organizational and case management skills are essential. A background of direct service with low-income populations and veterans or service members is preferred. Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience level. LAF offers generous fringe benefits.
To apply: Send cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information for two professional references, by e-mail, to: resume@lafchicago.org. Put the phrase “Veterans Rights Project Paralegal” in the subject line of the e-mail. No phone calls, please. The deadline for applications is February 9, 2018. The position will remain open until filled. LAF IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY