Hybrid Pro Bono Clinic Coordinator & Referrals

Justice Referral Advocate Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP) Statewide | Hybrid Position About the Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project The Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to providing pro bono civil legal services for low‑income Mainers. Through partnerships with volunteer attorneys, courts, and community organizations, VLP advances access to justice across the state. Our work is grounded in collaboration, accountability, and a commitment to high‑quality service delivery. Position Overview The Justice Referral Advocate plays a central, trusted role within the Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project, supporting access to civil legal services by coordinating pro bono referrals, administering and supporting VLP’s legal clinics, and serving as a key connective position across the organization. This is a high‑responsibility, hybrid role that combines clinic coordination, referral and case management, and client advocacy work. The Justice Referral Advocate is responsible for ensuring that clinics and referrals operate smoothly and volunteer attorneys are well supported. The role requires excellent judgment, professionalism, accountability, and discretion, as it involves handling confidential and sensitive client, attorney, and organizational information. Regular in‑person work is expected in our Portland office, with in‑person expectations adjusted based on the individual’s location. VLP has a preference for candidates located in, or with strong ties to, Northern Maine, though applicants from across the state will be considered. Job Responsibilities and Duties Clinic Coordination and Operations Serve as primary staff responsible for the coordination and day‑to‑day operational support of VLP’s limited‑scope legal clinics, both remote and in person Coordinate clinic logistics, including scheduling, client readiness, attorney participation, and day‑of operations Facilitate in‑person and remote clinics as needed, including managing meeting access and logistics Support and assist in developing VLP’s Community Justice Workers pilot Support and assist in developing programming for the Justice Andrew Mead Fellowship Develop, refine, and maintain clinic workflows, systems, and documentation to support consistency, efficiency, and high‑quality service delivery Work collaboratively with attorneys and other staff to support clinic capacity, quality, and growth Client Scheduling, Advocacy, and Communication Schedule appointments and send confirmations by email, text, and phone Prepare clients for appointments by obtaining case status, relevant documents, and background information and confirming client questions in advance Serve as a primary point of contact for clients regarding clinic participation and referral status Respond to client questions related to process, timing, and next steps (non‑legal) Follow up with clients after clinics or referrals as needed to support appropriate case movement Volunteer Attorney Coordination and Support Coordinate communications with volunteer attorneys, including schedules, confirmations, and provision of relevant client information and documents Support the VLP Legal Team in recruiting volunteer attorneys and maintain ongoing relationships Support volunteer attorney engagement, retention, and a positive pro bono experience Set up attorney volunteer profiles in VLP’s case management system and resolve access issues as needed Pro Bono Referrals and Extended Representation Manage and administer VLP’s Extended Representation Program and other pro bono referral initiatives Prepare and track referrals for limited and extended representation Conduct regular case status checks with volunteer attorneys Obtain case closing information and ensure timely and accurate closure of cases Coordinate with staff attorneys as needed to support appropriate case placement and movement Case File and Data Management Maintain accurate case records in VLP’s case management system, including case data entry, attorney pro bono time, and case outcomes Conduct regular reviews of open cases to ensure timely and efficient processing and prioritization consistent with VLP procedures Organizational Collaboration and Support Work closely and collaboratively with staff across the organization, including staff attorneys, intake staff, operations staff, and leadership Serve as a key connective role, supporting coordination, communication, and workflow across teams Develop and maintain partnerships with courts, community organizations, social service agencies, and other partners throughout Maine Assist with general operations as needed, including intakes, data cleanup, trainings, events, and coverage for team members Attend remote and in‑person staff meetings and other organizational activities Perform additional duties as assigned Role Expectations: Responsibility, Confidentiality, and Accountability This position carries a high level of responsibility and trust. The Justice Referral Advocate is expected to: Handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion and integrity Work independently while remaining accountable for timely follow‑through and results Exercise sound judgment and elevate issues appropriately Communicate clearly, proactively, and professionally with clients, attorneys, partners, and colleagues Take ownership of assigned work and contribute to a strong, collaborative team culture Work Hours and Location Full‑time position (40 hours per week), exempt and not eligible for overtime Some evening hours required, particularly to support evening clinics Hybrid role with regular in‑person work expected (in‑person expectations adjusted based on individual location--advocates from outside Southern Maine are strongly encouraged to apply) Reliable high‑speed internet and confidential workspace required for remote work Some in‑state travel may be required Compensation The anticipated salary range for this position is $57,000–$62,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Seeking a minimum of 3+ years’ experience in nonprofits, legal organizations, community organizing, or similar. Candidates who are licensed attorneys or who hold a Juris Doctor (JD) may be considered for compensation above this range, depending on experience, credentials, and organizational need. Benefits VLP offers a comprehensive benefits package, subject to eligibility requirements and the terms of applicable plans and policies, including: Paid Time Off (PTO) Paid Holidays Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) Life Insurance and Disability Insurance Wellness Benefit Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Retirement Plan Professional Development Support PTO accrues beginning on the employee’s start date at a rate equivalent to approximately 200 hours per year. VLP recognizes U.S. national and regional holidays and notifies employees annually of observed holidays. VLP's offices areclosed and the organization provides paid leave for an additional 2 weeks annually. VLP pays 100% of the premium for single‑subscriber health, dental, and vision coverage. For eligible spouse and/or dependent coverage, VLP pays 50% of the additional premium. Available to eligible employees enrolled in VLP medical coverage, subject to plan terms. Employer‑paid life insurance and short‑ and long‑term disability coverage. Participation in a SIMPLE IRA, with employer matching contributions of up to 3% of annual salary, subject to plan terms and IRS regulations. We encourage employees to take advantage of wellness programs and employee assistance resources. Supervision The Justice Referral Advocate reports to the Managing Attorney and participates in regular supervision, performance reviews, and goal‑setting discussions. Note This job description reflects the evolving needs of the Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project and may be modified over time. Equal Opportunity Employer We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. VLP believes that diverse perspectives strengthen the legal profession and enhance our ability to serve our clients effectively. If you are passionate about justice and equity, we encourage you to apply and join us in making a meaningful impact. #J-18808-Ljbffr Mainerafting