Paralegal-DVAP

$36,500 - $36,500/Yr

Legal Aid Of Northwest Texas - Dallas, TX

Full-time - Entry Level

Remote - Dallas, TX

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas (LANWT) is seeking a dedicated and proactive paralegal to join the Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program (DVAP). This full-time position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about public interest law and committed to providing high-quality legal services to low-income individuals. The paralegal will work under the direct supervision of a licensed attorney and will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the legal needs of clients in civil and family law cases. The role requires a strong understanding of legal procedures and the ability to work collaboratively with attorneys and clients alike. As a paralegal at LANWT, you will assist clients who meet the organization's eligibility criteria, providing paraprofessional legal services in accordance with the program's mission and advocacy principles. Your responsibilities will include conducting client intake, drafting legal documents, maintaining organized case files, and participating in outreach efforts to educate the community about available legal services. You will also have the opportunity to engage with various legal organizations and task forces, enhancing your professional development and networking within the legal community. The position requires a commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards as outlined by the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct and the American Bar Association. You will be expected to develop specialized knowledge in areas relevant to LANWT's clients and stay informed about changes in the law that may impact the services provided. This role is not only about legal assistance but also about building relationships with clients and community groups to foster a supportive environment for those in need of legal aid.

Responsibilities

• Assist clients under the supervision of a licensed attorney.
• Provide paraprofessional legal services in civil and family cases.
• Participate in outreach and community legal education.
• Conduct client intake and initial screenings.
• Investigate and develop assigned cases and projects.
• Refer cases to pro bono volunteers and support them.
• Draft pleadings, orders, letters, and memos.
• File legal papers and interact with court staff.
• Maintain accurate and organized records and files.
• Develop specialized skills and knowledge in assigned areas.
• Translate for clients when necessary.
• Seek supervision and guidance from attorneys.
• Participate in training programs and staff meetings.
• Report caseload statistics to supervisors.
• Travel to administrative agencies as needed.
• Develop knowledge of relevant laws and procedures.
• Make referrals to social service agencies.
• Represent clients at hearings as permitted.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate's Degree and paralegal certification preferred.
• Fluency in Spanish, both verbal and written, preferred.
• Prior legal services or public interest experience preferred.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and self-motivated.
• Ability to establish priorities and meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Professional and courteous interaction with individuals at all levels.
• Excellent computer skills, particularly with Microsoft products.
• Ability to work independently and maintain client confidentiality.
• Willingness to engage in occasional work-related travel.
• Excellent attendance record.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience serving low-income persons in a legal context.
• Knowledge of social service agencies that assist clients.

Benefits

• Paid vacation and holidays
• Retirement plan
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance