Paralegal Family Law & Victims of Crime

Description

Coast to Coast Legal Aid of South Florida, Inc. (CCLA) established in 2003 is a Legal Services Corporation (LSC) funded, non-profit organization. CCLA provides free civil legal services to low-income and otherwise eligible residents of Broward County and is located in Plantation, Florida, a suburb of Fort Lauderdale.  Our mission is to provide equal justice to underserved communities through quality and innovative free civil legal aid. CCLA provides legal advocacy for individuals in our community, helping thousands of economically disadvantaged residents to gain greater access to justice and much-needed legal assistance to remove barriers to a healthy and stable life. 

CCLA provides legal assistance in the areas of Family Law & Victims of Crime, Economic Advocacy & Community Health (public benefits), and Senior Law for people age 60 and older. At CCLA, we provide quality civil legal representation and equal access to justice, regardless of their income. CCLA’s vision is a community where everyone has the legal resources to thrive.

CCLA is currently seeking two (2) Paralegals to work in our Family Law & Victims of Crime Unit. The Paralegals  work under attorney supervision and support clients through all stages of their cases. Responsibilities include client intake and interviewing, case management, discovery, e-filing, calendaring, investigations, client communication, drafting pleadings and correspondence, mandatory disclosures, and compliance with funding requirements. The role also requires familiarity with domestic and intimate partner violence, criminal law, elder abuse, and trauma-informed services.

Position Duties 

• With the unit attorneys, will provide direct services to victims of crime including victims of human trafficking, intimate partner violence, and victims of crime who are age 60 and older. 
• Assists with matters including, but not limited to: Injunctions for Protection, Dissolution of Marriage (divorce), Paternity, Mediation of time-sharing and child support, and family court motions.
• Assists with all phases of case work, including intake and interviewing clients, discovery, e-filing, investigations, communicating with applicants and clients, letter writing, and drafting pleadings.
• Assists applicants and clients with completion of necessary forms and application materials and compliance materials accurately and efficiently.
• Ensures all forms and documentation comply with Court requirements and standards.
• Conducts interviews with clients to gather relevant information and understand their legal needs. 
• Provides compassionate, trauma informed and respectful assistance to clients, ensuring they feel supported throughout the legal process.
• Maintains detailed and organized case files for each client in case management system.
• Calendar court dates and deadlines for attorneys.
• Tracks and follows up on case progress, ensuring timely and efficient case management. 
• Works with Attorneys, Court staff, and other professionals to ensure comprehensive support for clients including communication with opposing attorneys, judicial staff, Clerk of Court staff, law enforcement, interpreters, and service of process staff.
• Coordinates with community organizations and resources to provide referrals for holistic support to clients.
• Comply with all program requirements, including, but not limited to: efficient case management, contemporaneous note taking and time keeping, completion of timely reports, outreach (virtual or in-person), professional development, assist with grant reporting, entry of complete information into case management system, and attending all mandated meetings and trainings.
• Performs other duties as requested by Management, Supervisors, or as required by grant(s).

Position Requirements

• Associates degree in paralegal studies or a related field, paralegal certification, and/or Bachelor’s degree preferred; however, relevant work experience will be considered in lieu of educational requirements. 
• Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in family law or related legal field preferred. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Zoom, and Adobe Pro. 
• Bi-lingual (English/Spanish preferred). 
• Strong understanding of family court procedures and legal documentation. 
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage a high volume of cases and work effectively and efficiently.
• Detail-oriented.
• Compassionate and client focused with an understanding of trauma-informed legal assistance. 
• Commitment to CCLA’s mission.
• Due to funder requirements, all applicants must pass a background check before employment begins.{See: Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse Education and Awareness website: https://info.flclearinghouse.com}

Why Join Coast to Coast Legal Aid of South Florida?

At CCLA, we value our employees and offer a competitive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance.

Benefits include:

Medical, vision, and 100% employer-paid individual dental coverage.

100% employer-paid life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance.

Supplemental insurance options.

403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution.

CCLA also offers generous paid time off benefits, more than 12 paid holidays annually, employee discounts, and a hybrid work schedule (two in-office days and three remote days) for eligible employees following the successful completion of the probationary period.

Additionally, CCLA offers substantial discounts on gym memberships, parks, travel, pet insurance, and more, contributing to our employees' overall well-being.

At CCLA, we foster a positive and supportive work environment where we work hard to provide exceptional service to our community. The work is both challenging and rewarding, and we take pride in the commitment and dedication of our team. Join a mission-driven organization where your work makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

For more information about CCLA, please visit our website at www.coasttocoastlegalaid.org.

CCLA is an equal opportunity employer and provider.