Legal Staff Paralegal in Saint Petersburg, FL

Public Interest

Saint Petersburg, FL

Legal Staff Paralegal in Saint Petersburg, FL

Legal Staff

Max 3 yrs required

No

Job Title: Family Law Paralegal

Job Responsibilities:
- Abide by the rules and regulations promulgated by the Florida Bar, specifically regarding the unauthorized practice of law and the permissible functions of nonlawyer personnel in a law office.
- Conduct client interviews in the office, at outreach sites, or other necessary locations to gather relevant information, facts, and witness data.
- Document client and related calls in case files and the Legal Server system, ensuring the attorney is notified of all documentation.
- Determine applicants' eligibility, schedule client appointments as needed, check for potential client conflicts, and enter client data into the case management system.
- Under attorney supervision, draft letters, memoranda, pleadings, briefs, and other necessary documents for cases.
- Prepare routine legal documents for hearings, service of process, subpoenas, summons, and indigency documents under attorney supervision. Ensure all copies and scanning for case files are prepared and organized.
- Perform thorough and timely legal research.
- Establish contact with social and regulatory agencies to exchange relevant information.
- Speak to client-oriented groups as directed.
- Stay informed on substantive and procedural aspects of poverty law and the array of available social services.
- Develop expertise in specific areas of law as assigned.
- Assist in preparing service and grant reports as required.
- Prepare complex documents under attorney supervision.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the organization.

Basic Standards of Performance:
- Maintain satisfactory attendance and punctuality.
- Comply with all organization policies and procedures.
- Be familiar with and adhere to the organization's mission.
- Satisfactorily complete duties and responsibilities as required by management and supervisors.
- Perform related work as required and fill in for positions above and below in the event of staffing shortages.

Special Knowledge and Skills:
- Knowledge of basic office procedures, including Legal Server data entry, reporting, and use of multi-line phone systems and basic office equipment such as copiers, fax machines, postage meters, and computers.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Professional, courteous, and efficient interaction with people and clients in crisis.
- Ability to work independently and with attention to detail.
- Ability to maintain client confidentiality.

Education and Experience Information:
- Prior experience in a clerical or administrative support position is required; two years as a legal secretary is preferred.
- Demonstrated knowledge of legal terminology and processes, with experience in family law preferred.
- An associate's degree or higher in paralegal studies or a related field, or a high school diploma/equivalency with at least three years of related experience as a legal secretary or legal assistant.
- Professional demeanor when working with clients in person or by telephone, as well as when interacting with other staff and the community.

Essential Requirements / Physical Demands:
- Ability to manage various projects with different priorities.
- Ability to answer phones, operate Microsoft computer applications, and communicate effectively both in writing and orally.
- Ability to work overtime when required.
- Ability to lift and/or carry office supplies, equipment, files, etc., up to 10 lbs.
- Valid Florida driver's license and capability to circulate outreach materials in the community and to local community partner agencies.

Salary Information:
- Salary: to per hour, depending on experience.
- The position is full-time with expected hours of per week.
- Benefits include 401(k) and 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, and work-from-home options.
- Generous paid time off, an excellent benefits package, a 403B retirement match of 2% after one year, and paid holidays are offered.
- The organization is a PSLF qualifying employer.

Additional Information:
- The organization is an equal opportunity employer, providing equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
- Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities.
- Continued employment is contingent upon grant funding.
- Candidates must complete an application and pass a background screening before employment can begin.