CCLS Staff Attorney - Legal Advice Line
Central California Legal Services (CCLS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free civil legal services to low-income individuals. The staff attorney will join the Legal Advice Line team to deliver legal information, advice, and referrals for various civil legal issues, while gaining experience in intake processes and regulations common to non-profit legal services.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for effectively and efficiently answering questions from staff and confirming that legal advice provided by LAL staff is accurate and appropriate
- Assists in monitoring the LAL call flow and performance, call data reports, and the status of cases sent for follow-up
- Reviews LAL files for transfer and closing
- Reviews and revises advocate closing letters to ensure compliance with legal standards and the timely closure of LAL files
- Conducts initial applicant screening, performs conflict checks, and determines eligibility for services
- Ensures that LAL is providing appropriate referrals to applicants that are determined to be non-eligible
- Maintains electronic client case files, conveys legal advice and information consistent with established guidelines
- Assists the LAL Directing Attorney in research of complex legal issues and writes internal memorandums on their interpretation and provides guidance on those legal issues
- Participates in organizational projects such as developing and conducting client surveys to improve delivery of client services
- Participates in weekly LAL meetings for case review and substantive training
- Organizes and mails appropriate correspondence and literature to clients, as needed
- Continuously improves their knowledge and ability to provide efficient, high-quality legal assistance
- Engages in community outreach as directed and as needed
- Performs other duties as assigned
Skills
- Active member in good standing of the State Bar of California
- All levels of experience are welcome to apply
- Ability to work under pressure and deal with stress while maintaining a professional and appropriate manner with callers and staff
- Ability to work quickly but accurately, multi-task, and meet short deadlines
- Ability to work both independently and cooperatively in a team environment; maintain a positive working relationship with team and other staff members
- Ability to interact with individuals and groups in a professional, courteous, and culturally competent manner
- Ability to quickly learn, obtain and maintain a detailed understanding of substantive law areas addressed by the Legal Advice Line
- Ability to obtain and maintain a detailed understanding of, and ensure compliance with, grantor requirements and CCLS policy and practices
- Ability to speak on the phone and take consecutive calls for up to two hours at a time without a break, multiple times per day; applicant must speak clearly and effectively, and be courteous with individuals seeking assistance in person and over the phone
- Ability to be punctual and reliable in attending work and keeping work commitments
- Competency/experience with PC systems and standard software (Microsoft Office, Access, Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint; ability to gain expertise in the current case file management system and Zoom call center platform
- Reliable transportation, a valid CA drivers' license with appropriate car insurance
- Commitment to CCLS' mission and core values
- Prior legal aid experience and/or a demonstrated commitment to access to justice for underserved communities
- Bilingual ability in Spanish or another language commonly spoken in the CCLS service area
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