For over thirty years, LCD has provided free direct legal services to individuals living with a disability or chronic illness.  Headquartered in center city the staff attorneys work directly with medical partners at multiple sites across the city. Focused on addressing health-harming legal needs, our practice areas include family, housing, planning documents, public benefits, and social security law. We conduct community legal outreach clinics, healthcare provider trainings, and actively participate in the Philadelphia Eviction Prevention Project.  Last year alone, LCD served over 2,300 clients, furthering our mission to foster inclusion, independence, and justice for all.

Summary:  Under supervision and direction of staff attorneys, the paralegal will perform a wide range of administrative tasks related to both substantive and procedural legal issues.  The paralegal will work closely with the attorneys and their clients and needs to demonstrate excellent research, organizational, and interpersonal skills.  In addition to providing ongoing support with case management, the paralegal will directly assist the Managing Attorney in cultivating and maintaining LCD’s pro bono program.  The position requires periodic travel to multiple locations throughout the city and home visits.

Responsibilities of the position:

• Conduct complete and accurate initial client interviews

• Screen clients for eligibility of LCD’s legal services under the supervision of attorney

• Refer clients to appropriate resources and provides advice under supervision of attorney

• Maintain a detailed calendar and case docket

• Create and maintain detailed spreadsheets as part of case management, pro bono program and specific funding contracts

• Prepare correspondence, reports, documents and other written materials to clients and to other agencies

• Conduct legal outreach clinics at various community events and with standing partnering agencies

• Assist Managing Attorney with pro bono program

• Maintain and organize files including updating case status

• Draft law documents for review by attorney

• Schedule appointments

Performs additional duties as needed

Necessary Skills: The ideal candidate has the ability to work both independently and as a team member and simultaneously prioritize, track and complete multiple tasks.  Strong analytical skills are essential. Candidates should expect to work in a fast-paced environment requiring flexibility, sensitivity to confidential matters, and the highest level of professionalism.  Strong interpersonal skills. Demonstrated skill in client interviewing, writing and verbal communication. Computer literacy. Fluency in writing and speaking Spanish is preferred but not required.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree, associate degree, paralegal certificate, or equivalent combination of education and experience in law, social services, or related fields. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

The LCD paralegal will be primarily in our main office, but may also travel periodically to one of our MLP sites.  In addition, the job requires assisting staff attorneys at various community outreaches and at home visits.

How to Apply:

Please send cover letter, resume and writing sample to emiller@lcdphila.org. Applications accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Legal Clinic for the Disabled is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.  LCD does not discriminate in the selection of employees on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, sexual identity, genetics, age, national origin, disability, or veteran status.  In addition to federal law requirements, LCD complies with all applicable state and local laws, governing nondiscrimination in employment.