Staff Paralegal - Eviction Diversion

Description

Apply your paralegal expertise to help keep families housed and strengthen eviction prevention efforts in the community.

The Spanish Eviction Diversion Pilot Program (EDPP) staff paralegal(s) will assist Community Legal Aid SoCal (CLA SoCal) attorney mediators and Supervising Attorney in implementing and operating the EDPP, a court-based initiative at the Compton Los Angeles Superior Court designed to reduce eviction filings and prevent homelessness through mediation and rental assistance coordination. This is a full-time, in person, non-exempt position based in the Compton Courthouse and reports to the Supervising Attorney.  

Responsibilities:

• Assist in outreach efforts to let the community know about EDPP services.
• Conduct eligibility screenings for the EDPP in-person and virtually/telephonically.
• Scheduling litigants for appointments.
• Entering data into the EDPP platform (Forward) accurately and timely.
• Assisting attorneys in all aspects of providing alternative dispute resolution services.
• Providing follow-up to litigants including assisting in gathering the documentation necessary for a successful rental arrears application.
• Efficiently communicate with EDPP Litigants.
• Assist litigants with applying for services, including rental arrears assistance when eligible.
• Perform clerical duties such as record-keeping, document management, and maintaining calendars and deadlines.
• Maintain confidentiality and neutrality and provide interpretation/translation support when qualified.
• Work with community groups, conduct outreach, and provide community education presentations and materials.
• Work with a multi-cultural perspective.
• Perform other duties as necessary for successful program implantation and operation.

Requirements

Education:

• Paralegal certificate, paralegal degree or
• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of one year of law-related experience.

Qualifications:

• Bilingual Spanish language proficiency – Required.
• Knowledge of landlord/tenant law – Preferred.
• One-year experience in a receptionist/clerical/call center position – Preferred.
• Mediation/alternative dispute resolution experience – Preferred.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, active insurance policy, and ability to travel frequently in and around the service area.
• Ability to multitask and organize work to ensure maximum service and efficiency to litigants.
• Ability to handle difficult litigants in stressful situations.
• Strong technical skills; including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams).
• Strong analytical, communication, and listening skills.
• Highly organized with attention to detail and ability to meet strict deadlines
• Self-motivated with strong problem-solving skills and ability to learn quickly
• Able to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure, team-oriented environment with empathy and energy
• Ability to model CLA SoCal’s values and mission – Required

Holistic Benefits:

• May work as little as 35-hour workweek.
• A hybrid schedule may be available when the program is established.
• 16 paid holidays + PTO (including wellness days) starting Day 1
• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and long-term disability
• 401(k) with employer contribution
• Student loan reimbursement program
• Bilingual bonus pay for qualified staff

About CLA SoCal:

Community Legal Aid SoCal (CLA SoCal) is a welcoming and hopeful non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the legal needs of low-income residents and seniors throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties. We provide equal employment opportunities. We strongly encourage all interested individuals to apply, including people of different abilities, religions, identities, orientations, nationalities, and ethnicities. All individuals who are seeking a welcoming environment who celebrate and value the unique characteristics of every member of the team who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive at CLA SoCal to apply for this role.