Paralegal Specialist III, IV & V

SUMMARY

The Paralegal Specialist supports the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) Program by reviewing, analyzing, and managing legal and benefits-related documentation for death, disability, and educational assistance claims. This role involves working closely with PSOB Benefits Specialists, the PSOB Director, and other team members to ensure the accurate processing and resolution of claims. The position requires attention to detail, analytical skills, and the ability to navigate complex legal and regulatory frameworks.

KEY DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Review new PSOB death and disability claims for accuracy and completeness upon receipt.
• Identify potential claim issues, including matters of law and fact, particularly for claims involving medical conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, or vascular ruptures.
• Document initial claim reviews in the PSOB 2.0 Portal on the same day or the next day.
• Meet with the PSOB Director and/or Benefits Specialists within three working days of receiving a file to discuss findings and identify claim issues.
• Support PSOB Senior Benefits Specialists and the PSOB Director throughout the application/claim process to resolve outstanding issues.
• Conduct legal research and analysis to ensure claims align with PSOB program regulations.
• Prepare supporting documentation and reports for appeals at the Hearing Officer and Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Director levels.
• Provide general reviews of all new PSOB claim information weekly.
• Capture, track, organize, and report PSOB data and metrics to the COR and PSOB Director.
• Maintain accurate and organized records in the PSOB 2.0 Portal and hard copy systems.
• Track and process PSOB cases through all levels of review, including the Hearing Officer and BJA Director.
• Ensure proper documentation of case status and resolution in all relevant systems.
• Handle sensitive legal documents and case files with discretion and in accordance with DOJ security and confidentiality policies.

EXPERIENCE and/or EDUCATION:

• Paralegal Certificate or a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (a legal emphasis preferred) (Required)
• Level III: Three (3) or more years of paralegal experience
• Level IV: Six (6) or more years of paralegal experience, including at least three (3) years focused on benefits/claims
• Level V: Eight (8) or more years of paralegal experience, including at least five (5) years focused on benefits/claims

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES:

• Strong understanding of legal principles and regulations, particularly those related to benefits and claims.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and legal research tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional analytical and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with team members and maintain professionalism in high-pressure situations.

Salary : $36 - $54