What are the responsibilities and job description for the Paralegal (Juvenile Law) position at Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, Inc.?
Are you looking for an opportunity to help children who are most in need of advocacy and to build rewarding relationships with young clients while moving them from crisis to a stable future?
The Legal Aid Society's Juvenile Advocacy Project offers a work environment that encourages creative thinking and a collaborative approach where attorneys work with social workers, paralegals and supervisors to find the best outcomes for their clients. The office is a hybrid office/remote work setting and offers an excellent work/life balance.
JOB SUMMARY:
Provides assistance to the Juvenile Advocacy Project attorneys by communicating with clients, facilitating intakes, investigating facts, and drafting letters, pleadings and other documents under the direct supervision of assigned attorneys. Work is monitored and evaluated by the assigned attorneys. Annual written evaluations are also completed by the assigned attorneys. The work schedule is Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Coordinate opening of files.
- Investigate case facts and prepare case files accordingly.
- Prepare legal documents, including pleadings and orders.
- Maintain client files and follows up with a variety of social service agencies.
- Develop and maintain relationships with social service agencies.
- Perform clerical and secretarial duties, including typing, proofreading, revising, filing.
- Make and receive phone calls and appointments for attorneys.
- Attend meetings in the community as assigned.
- Maintain confidentiality of client information.
- Keep accurate accounting of time spent on each client's case through LegalServer, the Legal Aid Society’s online case management system.
- Comply with all agency policies and procedures.
- Work with staff members to form a positive, supportive team atmosphere.
- Must work the days and hours to perform all assigned responsibilities and tasks, and be punctual and timely in meeting all performance requirements, including but not limited to, attendance standards and work deadlines.
- Must maintain courteous, professional and effective working relationships with employees and clients of the organization.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
- Associate’s Degree or equivalent from a two-year college or paralegal school; or six months to one year of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Computer literate; knowledge in application of Microsoft Word and Outlook.
- Typing speed testing at 55 wpm.
- Proficiency in spelling, punctuation, and grammar in drafting letters, memos, pleadings and other legal documents.
- Must pass Level 2 background screening and internal conflict check process.
- Good judgment, organization, and efficiency.
- Capacity to learn and adapt.
- Dependability, initiative, motivation, and concern for interest of clients.
- Ability to successfully and patiently deal with different and difficult personalities.
- Strong, positive communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and responsibly.
- High ethical standards and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to speak a second language preferred.
- Position requires occasional travel in the local area. Must have a reliable vehicle and must maintain a valid Florida State drivers’ license with a satisfactory driving record and eligibility for coverage under any applicable agency insurance.
SALARY RANGE: Salary range depending on experience. Full benefits package in addition to salary includes:
- Vacation leave earnings equal 2.4 weeks a year (beginning the first of the month after 30 days of employment) and increases to 3 weeks a year after two years of employment.
- Sick leave earnings equal 2.4 weeks a year (beginning the first of the month after 30 days of employment).
- 13-15 paid holidays per year (depending on court schedule).
- Health, dental and vision insurance (beginning first of the month after 30 days of employment).
- Employer paid short-term disability/long-term disability and life insurance (beginning first of the month after 30 days of employment).
- Employer matches up to 3% of 401K plan contribution (eligible after one year of service).
- Salary paid bi-weekly by direct deposit.
- Mileage and reimbursements processed weekly.
APPLICATION PROCESS AND DEADLINE: Send resume and cover letter with salary requirements by Friday, April 25, 2025.
The Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EOE ADA
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: Hybrid remote in West Palm Beach, FL 33401