Maryland Legal Aid (MLA) provides life-changing civil legal assistance to eligible residents in every part of the State. Since 1911, MLA has provided high-quality legal services to low-income, and marginalized individuals and communities-helping them remedy their civil legal issues and become empowered to overcome challenges, achieve stability and independence, and an overall better life. MLA is dedicated to preserving the basic human needs and basic human rights of clients, particularly as they navigate the justice system. MLA staff, pro bono attorneys, community partners, and general supporters all play important roles in ensuring that the legal playing field is leveled so that those most in need achieve equal access to justice. It is because of this diverse support that MLA is able to be a voice to tens of thousands of economically disadvantaged and vulnerable Marylanders every year. JOB SUMMARY: MLA announces an immediate opening for a full-time telephone intake paralegal in the Centralized Intake unit in Baltimore City. Telephone intake paralegals are expected to handle all functions related to client intake. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct initial and subsequent interviews with clients.
- Screen clients for eligibility for MLA services and make referrals as appropriate.
- Complete intakes, transfer calls, and intakes to staff attorneys using MLA's case management system and contact center software.
- Experience with Microsoft Officer Suite preferred.
- Perform other duties, as assigned, within the scope of the essential functions of the position.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Individuals must have basic written and oral communication skills, computer proficiency, strong reading comprehension, and be able to manifest the potential to perform paralegal duties.
- Paralegal certification or equivalent experience desired.
- Experience working in law firm or legal services.
- Ability to work independently, prioritize, and multi-task.
- Ability to learn specialized software of the firm.
- Responsible, reliable, honest, and ethical.
- Spanish language proficiency is strongly preferred.
- Performs other duties as assigned within the scope of the position's essential functions.
WORK ENVIRONMENT Work duties are typically performed in a general office setting with regular interaction via telephone, videoconference, instant messaging, and email, in-person, and in a courtroom. Certain work duties may be performed in community settings. BENEFITS The current salary range for the paralegal classification is $50,000.00 - $88,600.00. Paralegals will be paid in accordance with MLA's Workers Union current salary scale, which is subject to revision annually through collective bargaining negotiations. Relevant professional experience counts toward salary determination. Paralegals are eligible for additional compensation for conferred degrees and certificates ranging from ($500 - $4000). For example:
- one (1) year of experience is $50, 965.
- five (5) years of experience is $54, 825.
- ten (10) years of experience is $59, 650.
In addition, MLA provides employees with a generous benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, a 401(k)-retirement plan, two weeks paid time off, sick leave, 14 annual paid holidays, a hybrid work arrangement, and more. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Please submit a resume, legal writing sample, and cover letter describing your interest and qualifications with your online application.
- References will be required at the time of the final interview.
- No telephone calls, please. The position will remain open until filled.
Maryland Legal Aid is committed to equity, justice, and inclusion. As an equal opportunity employer, MLA seeks to hire individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives that are reflective of the communities we serve, including people with disabilities, people of color, women, and members of traditionally underrepresented groups.