Disability Advocacy Project Paralegal

Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania • Norristown, PA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania (LASP) is seeking a full-time Paralegal to support the Community Engagement Unit’s Disability Advocacy Project (DAP) in Norristown, PA. This role will focus on cases involving SSI and Social Security Disability. The Community Engagement Unit serves Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties. The position requires a team player capable of handling various duties. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel, and experience with case management systems (or the ability to learn them quickly) is desirable. Staff currently work on a hybrid basis, involving in-office work, remote work as needed, in-person filing and hearing attendance throughout LASP’s service area, and supporting in-person outreach efforts.

Requirements

• Associate or bachelor's degree.
• At least 2 years' experience as a paralegal or related experience and/or training.
• Demonstrated proficiency in computer technology, including Microsoft products (particularly Word and Excel), electronic mail, record and timekeeping software, routine database activity, word processing, spreadsheet, graphics, etc.
• Excellent communication, time management, and organization skills.

Nice To Haves

• Spanish language fluency is helpful.
• Experience with case management systems.
• Ability to quickly learn computer skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform intakes for new SSI and Social Security Disability cases, including interviewing applicants, issue spotting, and determining eligibility, case merit, and priority with attorney consultation.
• Provide advice and counsel to clients, conduct brief services, and gather information via letter, email, and phone calls under attorney supervision.
• Prepare legal documents such as forms, pleadings, petitions, briefs, affidavits, declarations, motions, memoranda, appeals, discovery requests, and other legal documents.
• Review denials and consult with the DAP attorney to determine if an appeal is warranted.
• Review, download, and upload documents to the Electronic Records Express.
• Obtain medical records and other supplemental documentation from third parties to support litigation.
• Create, maintain, and manage caseload files in LASP's computer case management system, adhering to LASP standards, and complete administrative tasks including entering notes and timekeeping.
• Maintain prompt, professional, and thorough communication with clients and authorized third parties regarding case updates.
• Organize information and utilize technical resources for easy access and transfer of necessary information to other staff for extended representation.
• Assist program attorneys in preparing witnesses, evidence, and exhibits for hearings.
• Support pro bono service by maintaining cases in LASP’s case management system and organizing information and client needs for pro bono volunteers.
• Conduct outreach, clinics, community education, and workshops with community partners, including County Assistance Offices.
• Maintain awareness of community resources beneficial to LASP’s clients.
• Assist in the creation and updating of legal resources like flyers, pro se materials, and fact sheets.
• Engage in LASP team efforts to achieve office and program goals, including participation in affinity groups and task forces.
• Ensure compliance with grant and contract requirements, assist with reports, and maintain detailed contemporaneous time records.
• Develop relevant skills and substantive knowledge through approved training, CLE, and educational opportunities.
• Maintain a trauma-informed environment and stay current on developments in priority service areas.
• Abide by all applicable professional standards of ethics and practice.
• Perform other assigned duties to support the effective operation of the Community Engagement Unit, potentially assisting attorneys in other legal areas as needed.

Benefits

• 401K retirement plan with generous employer contributions
• Health insurance option with 100% of premium costs provided
• Ancillary benefits
• Generous leave provisions including paid holidays, floating holidays, personal leave, vacation, sick, and parental leave.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree