About CELJ:
Center for Elder Law & Justice (CELJ) is a civil legal services organization fighting for justice, primarily for low-income older adults, in 10 counties in Western New York. Our attorneys stop illegal evictions, save clients homes from foreclosure, put a stop to elder domestic violence, fight for public benefits, work with our local immigrant & refugee populations, and represent grandparents and other kinship care relatives in custody and neglect petitions in family court. We also advocate for systems-wide policy changes, commenting frequently on changes to regulations and working with local elected leaders on legislation that will impact the poor and vulnerable older adults in our area. We believe that independence and dignity are the hallmarks of justice.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Experience with legal research & writing, as this position will require heavy amounts of policy research and letter drafting
- Strong professional verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to demonstrate utmost confidentiality in all matters
- Special projects, as assigned
- Provide administrative support for attorneys at the office
- Investigate and fact-find for cases
- Communicate with clients throughout their cases
- Organize, index, and track files
- Provide training, community outreach, and education to individuals and local community-based organization, and other advocates
- Coordinate and collaborate with other groups and organizations
- Represent the civil practice and legal aid in the community
- Promote the work of the office and civil practice
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Some travel may be required
- In-home client visits, as needed
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
- College degree, or equivalent paralegal experience required, paralegal certificate helpful
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Demonstrated research and analytical skills
- Experience with Microsoft Office applications
- Strong attention to detail, well organized and accurate
Preferred Qualifications:
- 1-3 years of experience
- Highly motivated and passionate about public service work, with sensitivity to those in crisis
- Ability to work efficiently and accurately while exhibiting patience and diplomacy
- Legal services background helpful
CELJ offers a competitive benefits and compensation package, including:
- · Generous vacation and sick time
- · Fourteen holidays a year, plus two half-day holidays
- · Summer hours between Memorial Day and Labor Day
- · Payment of license fees and association dues
- · Encouragement of professional development
- · Eligible for Federal Loan Forgiveness
CELJ is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Employer recruits without regard to sex, race, sexual orientation, or gender identity, and any such candidates are strongly encouraged to apply
Salary: 40k – 50k based on experience levels & union scale
Please send cover letter and resume to Chandler Jones, cjones@elderjusticeny.org. |