Philadelphia Legal Assistance - Philadelphia, PA

posted 2 months ago

Full-time - Entry Level
Remote - Philadelphia, PA
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

Philadelphia Legal Assistance (PLA) is seeking a dedicated and compassionate paralegal to join the Eviction Diversion Team as part of the "Save Your Home Philly" initiative. This full-time position is crucial in providing support to low-income tenants in Philadelphia who are at risk of losing their homes. The role will commence as soon as possible, and the successful candidate will work closely with a team of attorneys and paralegals to deliver essential legal assistance to vulnerable populations. The paralegal will be instrumental in operating the "Save Your Home Philly" Hotline, which serves as a vital resource for residents facing eviction. This hotline connects tenants with legal support and housing counselors, helping them navigate the complexities of the legal system and understand their rights. The paralegal will engage in various activities, including providing information about the Eviction Diversion program, evaluating tenant situations, and coordinating case referrals. This position is not only about legal support but also about advocating for tenants' rights and ensuring they have access to the resources they need to avoid homelessness. In addition to direct client interaction, the paralegal will conduct research on relevant statutes and regulations, assist attorneys with litigation support, and participate in mediations to advocate for tenants facing housing repair issues. This role is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and grow within a supportive team environment, contributing to the overall mission of preventing homelessness and promoting stability within Philadelphia's low-income communities.

Responsibilities

  • Providing information about the Eviction Diversion program and assistance to tenants entering the program
  • Evaluating a tenant's situation and making appropriate referrals
  • Researching, understanding and utilizing statutes, regulations and city ordinances
  • Coordinating and managing case referrals
  • Providing litigation support to housing unit attorneys
  • Identifying cases for advice and representation by unit attorneys
  • Working with Housing Counselors to make appointments and ensure that housing counselors are aware of any special needs or circumstances with the tenant's case
  • Working within a team of Eviction Diversion staff to improve the services we provide for this new and growing program
  • Advocating for tenants with housing repair issues in mediations held by the Eviction Diversion Program.

Requirements

  • Excellent communication and interviewing skills
  • Strong writing skills
  • Commitment to improving the well-being of low-income communities
  • Compassion, understanding, patience, and a talent for working cooperatively with a broad spectrum of people
  • Maturity, self-motivation, and ability to adapt quickly

Nice-to-haves

  • Prior work or volunteer experience at a non-profit serving low-income clients
  • Spanish language fluency a plus

Benefits

  • Health insurance premiums paid in full for employee and family
  • Cash incentives for health insurance opt out
  • Vacation, personal, and sick leave
  • Thirteen (13) paid holidays
  • 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution based on years of service
  • Life insurance
  • Short and long term disability benefits
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