Paralegal - Pro Bono Coordinator

Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to eligible individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties, as well as to farm workers statewide. Since 1966, FRLS has been dedicated to justice, offering legal services in housing law, family law, consumer protection, public benefits, elder law, disaster relief, education law, and more—at no cost to our clients. FRLS partners with community organizations and pro bono attorneys to provide quality advocacy, outreach, and education aimed at protecting the rights of those in need. For over 50 years, FRLS has been a steadfast advocate for justice. Learn more at www.FRLS.org.

Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. is seeking to hire a paralegal to join our Pro Bono Team. The purpose of this position is to implement the strategic vision and day-to-day management of FRLS’s pro bono program in the assigned judicial circuit(s). In conjunction with other members of the Pro Bono team, the Pro Bono Coordinator is responsible for fostering positive relationships with the private bar, law firms, law schools, bar associations, state-wide access to justice commissions, community partners, and national organizations. The Pro Bono Coordinator reports to the Pro Bono Manager.

Essential Functions

1. Recruit attorney volunteers, law students, paralegals, and other professionals to accept pro bono cases and assist at pro se and legal advice clinics.
2. Conduct on-site intake as needed at outreach events.
3. Manage the flow of cases from intake to placement (case matching) with volunteer attorney.
4. Develop and implement various pro bono projects, advice clinics, and outreach events for the benefit of attorneys and clients.
5. Assist with the implementation of CLE trainings for pro bono volunteers and FRLS’s staff.
6. Develop and implement volunteer recognition programs.
7. Work with various committees, bar associations, community partners, and the public to promote FRLS’s Pro Bono Program.
8. Collaborate to establish and implement creative pro bono opportunities for attorneys in the service area.
9. Other duties assigned.

Requirements

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

1. High School diploma or GED.
2. Paralegal degree or certification, and several years working in FL legal system preferred.
3. Knowledge of the legal system, commitment to the mission of FRLS and compassion for the clients.
4. Fluent in English and Spanish or Haitian Creole is preferred.
5. Ability to forge positive relationships with clients, community, and colleagues.
6. Good organizational, interpersonal and communication skills.
7. Ability to work collaboratively, yet independently.
8. Creativity and ability to maximize the use of existing resources.
9. Working knowledge of Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and Case Management System.
10. Must be able to effectively communicate with peers, supervisors, clients and the public.
11. Must be able to effectively work in high pressure situations which involve deadlines.

Working conditions

This position operates in a professional work environment.

Physical requirements

1. This is a largely sedentary role, however, some lifting of office supplies of up to 20 pounds may be required.
2. Must be able to travel throughout Florida, as needed.

Reports

1. No supervisory duties

FRLS offers a very generous benefits package that includes 403(b) with employer-paid contribution; health insurance (medical, dental, and vision) for employees and their dependents; paid leave (up to 5 weeks of PTO, 2 personal days, and 13 holidays). FRLS Paralegals operate in an in-office environment, requiring work in their assigned office 5 days a week. Paralegals are permitted to work up to two days at home once they complete their probationary period.

Clearinghouse Education and Awareness website: HB531 | Florida Agency for Health Care Administration

Fluent in English and Spanish or Haitian Creole is preferred.