The staff paralegal will assist attorneys in operating the Eviction Diversion Pilot Program by conducting eligibility screenings, managing case documentation, and coordinating rental assistance. They will also perform outreach, provide interpretation support, and maintain accurate records within the court-based initiative.
Requirements overview
Candidates must hold a paralegal certificate, degree, or bachelor's degree with at least one year of law-related experience. Proficiency in Spanish is required, along with strong technical skills and the ability to travel within the service area.
Community Legal Aid SoCal is dedicated to meeting the legal needs of low-income people throughout Orange and Southeast Los Angeles Counties through the provision of free legal services for qualifying individuals. With an emphasis on innovation, language access, and a holistic approach to client care, we support clients in the following areas: Family Law, Housing, Consumer Defense, Public Benefits, Health, Immigration, Seniors, and Systemic Impact.
We promote equal access to the justice system through advocacy, self-help services, community education, legal counseling and representation. Visit our website for more information.
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.