Paralegal - Public Benefits

Description

Legal Aid Chicago provides free civil legal assistance to people living in poverty in metropolitan Chicago. Founded on the philosophy that all individuals are entitled to quality civil legal representation, we work to ensure that poverty is not an impediment to justice.

About the role

This position requires residency in the Chicago metropolitan area of Illinois or Northwest Indiana. It involves travel to regularly scheduled outreach activities, including at City of Chicago Department of Family and Support Services Centers at least three days per week.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and grow knowledge of law and procedures related to the benefits administered by the Social Security Administration and Illinois Department of Human Services.
• Conduct intake and gather facts needed for comprehensive legal assessment for potential clients who will primarily be nursing home residents who need income to transition out of nursing homes.
• Assist clients to apply for benefits from SSA and IDHS including completing and submitting application forms and obtaining, preparing, and submitting other documents such as medical records necessary to establish eligibility.
• Undertake activities needed to help clients obtain, maintain, and maximize benefits to which they are entitled, including but not limited to: conducting factual and legal research; devising, updating, and implementing case strategies; preparing and presenting cases for case acceptance decisions; preparing cases for hearings; drafting legal documents; negotiating; presenting evidence; conducting oral advocacy in administrative proceedings; and properly maintaining an ongoing client relationship.
• Provide administrative and litigation support to attorneys including, but not limited to drafting letters, pleadings, discovery, records requests; and maintaining paper files and intake materials.
• Maintain knowledge of the case acceptance criteria of the Public Benefits Practice Group and other Legal Aid Chicago Practice Groups to facilitate appropriate internal referrals.
• Maintain case files and accurate case notes and timekeeping in electronic case management system.
• Track data related to grants and assist with grant reporting.
• Maintain case files and accurate timekeeping in electronic case management system.
• Maintain proficiency with all equipment, computer hardware and software necessary to perform the duties of the position.
• Other duties as determined by the Supervising Attorneys and Director.

Qualifications

• Strong oral and written communication skills, highly developed organizational skills, great client counseling skills and genuine desire to interact with clients.
• Knowledge of and experience with public benefits issues is valued and should be highlighted in the cover letter and resume.
• The successful applicant will be collegial and demonstrate a commitment to and experience with our client communities and/or people living in poverty.
• Applicants must have the ability to work well under pressure, independently and as part of a team.
• Fluency in Spanish is strongly preferred.

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills.
• Experience with public benefits administration.
• Ability to work well under pressure.
• Fluency in Spanish (preferred).

Benefits

Legal Aid Chicago offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, effective the first day of employment.
• 15 vacation days and 18 sick days accrued within the first year of employment.
• 19 paid holidays, including four (4) floating holidays.
• Twelve weeks of Paid Parental Leave at 100% of the salary after six months of employment.
• 403(b) retirement plan with an employer contribution after one year of employment.
• $50,000 Basic Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance, at no cost.
• Access to Employee Assistance Program resources, at no cost.
• Monthly internet stipend.

Pay

The budgeted salary range for this position is $46,675-$51,428, which reflects 0-10 years of paid, credited experience. The position is part of the National Organization of Legal Services Workers, UAW Local 2320.

Schedule

The position is full-time and requires travel to regularly scheduled outreach activities, including at City of Chicago Department of Family and Support Services Centers at least three days per week.