Legal Aid Intake Paralegal

Central West Justice Center (CWJC) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Community Legal Aid (CLA). Together, these two programs have over 150 staff providing a full range of civil legal services to the low-income and elderly residents of central and western Massachusetts. CWJC's core work includes effective client-centered advocacy and robust outreach to and partnerships with our client communities.

CWJC seeks an intake paralegal to work in its Springfield or Worcester office. The paralegal will focus on assisting the work of the public benefits unit and will also support the work of other units as needed. Under the direction of CWJC attorneys, the intake paralegal will interview prospective clients; assess client eligibility; gather client documents and evidence in support of clients' claims to relief; record client information using CWJC's computerized record-keeping system; attend and participate in scheduled unit meetings; assist attorneys with client communications, including providing Spanish-English interpretation and translation; and, when appropriate, provide advice or make referrals to other resources.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be fluent in English and Spanish.
• College degree and/or paralegal certificate preferred.
• Capacity to identify and analyze legal and other problems.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment where clients often need immediate support.
• The ability to work cooperatively in a team is essential.
• A demonstrated sensitivity to the needs and concerns of individuals from diverse backgrounds, and commitment to working with low-income communities.

COMPENSATION: The starting salary for this position is $51,840, which is based on a union scale and adjusted upward depending on experience. CWJC offers a very generous benefits package that includes 401(k) with employer-paid contribution; low-cost health insurance (medical, dental, and vision) for employees and their dependents; paid leave (4 weeks vacation, 3 personal days, 12 sick days, and 13 holidays); and relocation stipend. CWJC has a hybrid workplace and requires staff to work at least three days per week in their assigned office.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Please apply online. Alternatively, you can email your cover letter and resume to avaughan@cla-ma.org or mail to Alicia Vaughan, Human Resources Director, Community Legal Aid, 370 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608.

CWJC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to ensure that our staff members reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. CWJC encourages applicants from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences.