Client Services Coordinator

Job Description

Job Description

About

The Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York, Inc. (LASMNY) is a non-profit public interest law firm providing free civil legal assistance to low-income individuals facing issues that impact basic needs such as housing, safety, income, and healthcare. We serve a thirteen-county region in Central New York, including Broome, Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, and Otsego counties. Our Agricultural Worker Program (AWP) serves agricultural workers throughout New York State. We are committed to protecting the rights of vulnerable populations, including seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, immigrants, and survivors of domestic violence.

Job Summary

The Client Services Coordinator serves as a vital link between clients and the Tenant Defense Project, providing comprehensive intake, administrative, and client support functions. This role combines direct client service with administrative responsibilities to ensure efficient operations and quality service delivery. The Client Services Coordinator supports attorneys and staff in representing tenants facing eviction and other housing instability, helping to ensure that eligible clients receive timely, accessible, and effective legal assistance. This position reports to a Supervising Attorney.

Essential Job Functions

• Conduct thorough intake interviews with prospective clients to assess legal needs, determine program eligibility, and identify urgency of housing-related issues.
• Screen applicants for services and provide appropriate referrals to other LASMNY programs, partner organizations, and community resources.
• Provide ongoing client communication and case status updates, including follow-up on pending matters and required documentation.
• Connect clients with rental assistance programs, housing subsidies, utility assistance, emergency financial aid, and other benefits programs that support housing stability; assist clients in navigating application processes for those resources as needed.
• Support delivery of “Know Your Rights” presentations, community outreach events, and educational programs focused on tenant rights.
• Assist with intake at courthouses, off-site locations, and community events to ensure accessibility for clients facing housing instability.
• Schedule client appointments and manage calendar coordination for court appearances, attorney meetings, and intake events.
• Prepare, proofread, and format legal correspondence, court filings, petitions, pleadings, motions, and discovery documents under attorney supervision.
• Maintain organized case files and ensure proper documentation in compliance with Legal Services Corporation regulations and LASMNY policies.
• Document client interactions, case progress, outcomes, and closing information accurately and timely in the case management system.
• Support front office operations including answering phones, greeting clients and visitors, and managing incoming mail and deliveries.
• Assist attorneys with court preparation, including organizing exhibits, copying and assembling case materials, and coordinating logistics for hearings.
• Assist with grant reporting requirements, data collection, and preparation of statistical and outcome reports as assigned.
• Work effectively and professionally with clients, colleagues, courts, and community organizations.
• Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, trainings, outreach events, and professional development opportunities.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Adhere to all LASMNY policies, procedures, grant requirements, and professional standards.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned to meet agency needs.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree from an accredited paralegal program, or equivalent education and experience.
• Minimum of two years of law office, legal services, or other relevant administrative experience.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365, including Word, Excel, and Outlook, with the ability to learn new software and technology platforms quickly.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with clients experiencing housing instability.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to serving low-income and vulnerable populations with dignity, respect, and cultural sensitivity.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual or multilingual capabilities.
• Previous experience with LegalServer or comparable legal case management software.
• Knowledge of legal terminology, court procedures, and landlord-tenant law.
• Notary public certification or willingness to obtain.
• Valid NYS Driver’s License or ability to obtain one.

Compensation and Benefits

LASMNY offers a collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. Salary is commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package is provided, including health insurance, retirement contributions, paid leave, and professional development opportunities. Annual salary starts at $45,630.00 for recent graduates and up to $51,570.00 for candidates with five years of relevant experience.