Legal Assistant

About the role

Erie Neighborhood House is a social service agency serving the Chicago metropolitan area and dedicated to promoting a just and inclusive society. The Legal Assistant position is full-time, Monday through Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm, reporting to the Immigration Program Manager.

Responsibilities

• Perform receptionist duties including answering phones and fielding client questions, taking and delivering messages, directing calls to appropriate personnel, and assisting members of the public;
• Greet and direct clients in a courteous and professional manner;
• Attend to clients dropping off or picking up documents;
• Process mail daily, including uploading notices to data system and filing mail in office;
• Maintain the organization and management of client files, documents, and payments in the office;
• Prepare and mail applications to USCIS and other government agencies on a weekly basis;
• Promptly and accurately enter and update data in online legal database of client information;
• Aid in administrative duties including making copies, filing records, preparing mailings, and translating documents;
• Aid in office organization and managing inventory;
• Aid in preparing monthly data reports;
• Attend to clients’ questions regarding case status or program services via phone, email, or in-person;
• Organize and manage client phone calls to schedule and confirm legal consultations and appointments on a weekly basis and send appointment reminders;
• Perform weekly client intake for office consultations, including gathering and entering data, creating files, and receiving payments from applicants;
• Follow up on pending case work and maintain communication with clients via phone, email, or mail regarding missing information and/or documentation necessary for submission of application;
• Collect fees from applicants;
• Aid in case management by working with clients to receive resources and referrals;
• Manage and update referral networks through online data systems;
• Aid in client registration and intake during in-person workshops;
• Participate in staff trainings and meetings as required;
• Other duties as requested.

Qualifications

• Written and oral fluency in English/Spanish required;
• High school degree or equivalent preferred;
• 1-2 years administrative experience required;
• Experience with legal immigration services preferred;
• Experience with data management software preferred:
• Excellent organizational skills and detail-oriented;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with legal ethical and professional rules of conduct;
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills;
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite;
• Access to reliable transportation and ability to work in the office.

Qualifications - Continued

• Demonstrated commitment to social justice and sensitivity to challenges of the immigrant community.

Team Member Benefits

• Compensation of $19.23-$20.19 / hour based on experience.
• Work / life integration.
• Generous paid time off.
• Professional Development.
• Wellness support.
• Employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Voluntary life and AD&D and short and long-term disability.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical, vision and dependent care.
• 403b with employer match.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Union / Non-Exempt.

About Erie Neighborhood House

Since 1870, Erie Neighborhood House has provided the most comprehensive support immigrant and low-income families in Chicago need to thrive and has constantly evolved to meet their needs. Today, Erie House is a modern social services nonprofit with programming and resources for children & youth, mental health & community wellness, adult education & training, legal services, and more.