Paralegal

Summary

Texas Advocacy Project is a statewide non-profit working to end dating and domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, human trafficking, and stalking in Texas. TAP empowers survivors through free legal services and access to the justice system, and advances prevention through public outreach and education. Our vision is that all Texans live free from abuse. 

TAP's Core Values are Integrity, Courage, Innovation, & Empowerment.

The Paralegal is responsible for assisting the staff attorneys on all assisted pro se or direct representation cases. The primary responsibilities consist of drafting pleadings, file maintenance, and client correspondence.  In this role, you may review relevant aspects of the law and provide additional client services as needed under the direction of an attorney. Paralegals often conduct pre-litigation and post-litigation research, draft documents, maintain familiarity with local filing rules, manage legal logistics, and help explain complex legal topics to other employees. 

Position Description

• Research law, investigate facts, and prepare documents to assist attorneys.  
• Draft and review legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and discovery responses.  
• Aid staff attorneys with discovery and trial preparation.  
• Perform cite checks and legal research both manually and through the use of electronic resources such as Lexis and Westlaw.  
• Prepare correspondence, subpoenas, and other documents.  
• Perform court filings, records research, and deliveries.  
• Accompany attorneys to court to assist with litigation.
• Ensure that both the electronic and physical files are complete and accurate for use by staff attorneys.   
• Assist with oversight of legal volunteers and volunteer attorneys.   
• Maintain and update the staff resource binder and assist with other administrative duties.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Paralegal certification required. 
• Previous work experience as a paralegal or experience in other roles within the legal field.
• Bilingual in Spanish
• Excellent oral and written communication.
• Knowledge of general legal terminology and legal principles. 
• Ability to organize and prioritize workload. 
• Ability to understand and follow written and oral directions. 
• Ability to think critically and analytically.
• Must be familiar with MS Office, database management, and record keeping software.  
• Able to learn and work independently while also working well with others.
• Must be able to provide information to clients in crisis and be able to help focus individuals in a compassionate and respectful manner.
• Ability to provide trauma-informed customer-service in accordance with ongoing organizational trainings and principles.
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable means of transportation.

Salary range $57,000-$59,000. Compensation is commensurate with experience. Texas Advocacy Project provides health insurance, malpractice insurance, CLE and State Bar dues are paid, and you have the opportunity to participate in the Project’s matching retirement plan. Generous paid vacation, personal leave, and holidays. 

A criminal background check will be conducted. 

Texas Advocacy Project is a smoke-free work environment.

To Apply:

If interested, please send a cover letter, detailed resume, and 3 references to jobs@texasadvocacyproject.org. Please type “Paralegal” in the subject line.  No telephone inquiries, please.  Applicants must consent to a background check once the offer is made. Open until the position is filled.  Please indicate how you heard about the opening.