Paralegal
GBLA. Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance,, Bakersfield, CA, United States
Job Description
Job Description
Summary
The Paralegal provides essential legal support to attorneys and helps ensure the delivery of high-quality legal services to low-income clients. This position involves conducting legal research, drafting documents, preparing filings, and managing case files, assisting with client communications, conducting research on housing laws, and assisting with eviction defense, housing discrimination cases, and habitability issues, case intake, and follow-up, while maintaining accurate and organized records in accordance with organizational policies and professional standards. By supporting attorneys and collaborating with staff and community partners, the Paralegal contributes to effective client advocacy and the organization’s mission to promote access to justice for vulnerable populations.
Duties & Responsibilities
Conduct legal research and gather relevant information to support attorneys.
Draft pleadings, correspondence, and other legal documents as directed by attorneys.
Prepare and organize case files, exhibits, and supporting documentation for hearings, trials, or meetings.
Assist attorneys with client intake, interviews, and follow-up communications.
Maintain accurate and organized electronic and physical case records in compliance with organizational policies.
File court documents and other legal materials as required.
Support attorneys by preparing written materials and providing logistical assistance.
Collaborate with attorneys, staff, and community partners to address client needs effectively.
Assist with outreach, education, and training initiatives as assigned.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and operations of the organization.
Other duties and responsibilities as assigned or delegated.
Minimum Qualifications
Paralegal certification.
At least one year of experience in legal aid, advocacy, or a related professional environment.
Demonstrated leadership, delegation, and communication skills.
Strong knowledge of basic legal processes, administrative systems, and client services.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work compassionately and effectively with diverse client populations.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
Basic proficiency with Microsoft 365 and Legal Server (training provided).
Ability to travel throughout Kern County.
Preferred Qualifications
Bilingual or multilingual skills, with preference for Spanish and/or other languages commonly spoken in Kern County.
Familiarity with issues affecting low-income communities.
Strong organizational skills and adaptability in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
Familiarity with Legal Services Corporation regulations.
Company Description
Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Inc. “GBLA” is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization whose mission is “to promote social change and justice by providing high-quality legal services to the low-income community.” GBLA’s service area is Kern County, California. It is the state’s third-largest county in land area.
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Job Description
Summary
The Paralegal provides essential legal support to attorneys and helps ensure the delivery of high-quality legal services to low-income clients. This position involves conducting legal research, drafting documents, preparing filings, and managing case files, assisting with client communications, conducting research on housing laws, and assisting with eviction defense, housing discrimination cases, and habitability issues, case intake, and follow-up, while maintaining accurate and organized records in accordance with organizational policies and professional standards. By supporting attorneys and collaborating with staff and community partners, the Paralegal contributes to effective client advocacy and the organization’s mission to promote access to justice for vulnerable populations.
Duties & Responsibilities
Conduct legal research and gather relevant information to support attorneys.
Draft pleadings, correspondence, and other legal documents as directed by attorneys.
Prepare and organize case files, exhibits, and supporting documentation for hearings, trials, or meetings.
Assist attorneys with client intake, interviews, and follow-up communications.
Maintain accurate and organized electronic and physical case records in compliance with organizational policies.
File court documents and other legal materials as required.
Support attorneys by preparing written materials and providing logistical assistance.
Collaborate with attorneys, staff, and community partners to address client needs effectively.
Assist with outreach, education, and training initiatives as assigned.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and operations of the organization.
Other duties and responsibilities as assigned or delegated.
Minimum Qualifications
Paralegal certification.
At least one year of experience in legal aid, advocacy, or a related professional environment.
Demonstrated leadership, delegation, and communication skills.
Strong knowledge of basic legal processes, administrative systems, and client services.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work compassionately and effectively with diverse client populations.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
Basic proficiency with Microsoft 365 and Legal Server (training provided).
Ability to travel throughout Kern County.
Preferred Qualifications
Bilingual or multilingual skills, with preference for Spanish and/or other languages commonly spoken in Kern County.
Familiarity with issues affecting low-income communities.
Strong organizational skills and adaptability in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
Familiarity with Legal Services Corporation regulations.
Company Description
Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Inc. “GBLA” is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization whose mission is “to promote social change and justice by providing high-quality legal services to the low-income community.” GBLA’s service area is Kern County, California. It is the state’s third-largest county in land area.
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