Paralegal A

About the role

Southern Migrant Legal services (SMLS), A Project of Texas RioGrande Legal Aid seeks a Paralegal A for its Nashville office. The paralegal must be fluent in written and spoken English and Spanish. Preference will be given to applicants with a demonstrated commitment to social justice, especially in the areas of workers' and immigrants’ rights. This is an in-person position at the Nashville office location.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intakes with clients, including eligibility screenings and substantive interviews, in person and through remote communication systems (telephone, video);
• Maintain regular communication with clients through meetings, telephone calls, and written correspondence, ensuring clients are informed of case developments and upcoming deadlines;
• Coordinate with team members and stakeholders to facilitate client communication, appointments, case-related activities, and administrative processes;
• Conduct follow-up and fact investigation in assigned cases, including gathering evidence, requesting records, and researching applicable law;
• Interview clients and witnesses and draft declarations statements;
• With attorney supervision, prepare forms and legal documents, including but not limited to interview preparation materials, motions, filings with administrative agencies, and other affirmative filings;
• Gather and organize evidence, including medical and mental health records;
• Communicate with and interview clients, witnesses, family members, and other contacts to develop the factual record in each case;
• Assist attorneys in case strategy development and hearing preparation;
• Schedule, organize, and facilitate attorney-client meetings;
• Present legal education and know-your-rights materials for clients, including rights advisories, procedural guides, and orientation presentations;
• Maintain accurate and complete client files and administrative records in compliance with program standards;
• Provide document translation and interpretation services for clients;
• Provide legal information and referrals to individuals who are not accepted for direct representation;
• Attend and participate in community group meetings and educational forums to conduct intake and make community legal education presentations;
• Track hearing dates, filing deadlines, and other critical case milestones to ensure timely completion of all deliverables;
• Perform other related duties and tasks as assigned by Team Managers and attorneys

Qualifications

• Fluency in written and spoken English and Spanish;
• Valid driver’s license;
• Willing and able to travel extensively, overnight, especially during the spring and summer months;
• Proficient word processing, internet, and office skills;
• Demonstrated commitment to social justice, especially in workers' and immigrants’ rights (preferred);

Pay

Salary Range $44,340.00 - $58,403.96 per year