Community Law Legal Assistant II
About The Position
MPD (Multnomah Defenders, Inc.) is a non-profit law firm that has been providing public defense services in Oregon since 1971. As the largest single provider of trial-level public defense services in the state, MPD has offices in Multnomah and Washington counties. The Community Law (CL) department within MPD focuses on civil legal services to address the downstream effects of criminal justice system involvement. CL serves vulnerable populations in Portland and Multnomah County, helping clients overcome barriers to housing and economic stability. The department defends tenants facing eviction, advocates for systemic change for those with prior criminal justice involvement, and has an Immigration team providing consultations and representation. CL collaborates with various agencies and organizations to support clients in navigating the legal system and achieving economic opportunities. MPD is seeking a Legal Assistant II to join the Community Law Team. This role involves acting as a liaison between clients, attorneys, and partner organizations, and actively participating in client advocacy. Responsibilities include communicating with community-based organizations to secure external services, conducting eligibility screenings and intakes, and gathering basic case information. The Legal Assistant II is also responsible for maintaining accurate records and participating in team meetings for case review and office-related discussions. The ideal candidate will be committed to justice for low-income, vulnerable, and marginalized individuals and possess an understanding of the systemic and economic issues they face.
Requirements
- Excellent organizational and time management skills and attention to detail
- Proficient with Microsoft Office and ability to learn additional software as needed
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality
Nice To Haves
- Prior legal assistant or paralegal experience
- Demonstrated cultural competence and sensitivity in working with diverse clients, communities, and colleagues
- Experience working with low-income populations
- Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
- Fluent in Spanish highly preferred
Responsibilities
- Serves as liaison between client, attorney, and partner organizations.
- Actively participates in client advocacy.
- Communicates with staff at community-based organizations to seek external services for clients.
- Conducts eligibility screenings and intakes.
- Obtains basic case information for MPD legal services.
- Maintains accurate records.
- Actively participates in team meetings for case review and discussion of office-related issues.
Benefits
- Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP)
- Dental
- Vision
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid
- 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of service
- PTO – 24 hours upon hire and accrues monthly to 80 hours and increase to 120 hours starting at 24 months
- 10 paid holidays
- 2 Personal Equity Days
- 4 Mental Health Days per year
- Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire + accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employment
- Option of a 35-hour work week after the completion of six months of employment
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
