Family Law Paralegal

Under attorney supervision, the Family Law Paralegal is an entry level position designed to preliminarily assist the Family Law practice group with litigation-based administrative duties while being trained by the Supervising Attorney to handle an individual caseload. Interested candidates must have a specific desire to practice Family Law and assist CCLS clients with issues involving domestic violence. DUTIES Submit electronic court filings in all counties served by CCLS; Prepare and send pleadings to opposing counsel via email and U.S. Mail; Prepare flash drives with audio/video recordings for CCLS advocates and opposing counsel; Transcribe Spanish/English audio and video recordings for client files; Prepare County Sheriff Instruction forms; Prepare requests for court copies or personal service via the court runner; Meet with CCLS clients to accept and provide case file documents; Scan and e‑file client court documents upon receipt; Other administrative duties as assigned. Interview, assist and otherwise provide high quality services to self‑help litigants consistent with CCLS program priorities; Draft and file documents related to family law matters, including but not limited to domestic violence restraining orders, dissolution of marriage, child custody, contempt of court, and declarations; Respond to client’s phone calls and emails in a timely manner; Close cases with appropriate documentation and notes in a timely manner following completion of the case; Provide court accompaniment to clients, when appropriate and approved by the supervisor; Document all client contacts and casework in the case management system on a daily basis; Work with other CCLS advocates to ensure the delivery of high‑quality legal services; Participate in weekly CCLS team meetings; Participate in biweekly case review meetings; Identify and analyze systemic issues through individual casework and through review of CCLS data and participation in statewide networks of legal services advocates; Interface with other CCLS and California advocates on issues of mutual interest; Participate with client groups and community‑based service providers; Participate in community outreach and education events; Carry out CCLS policies and procedures; Attend training and keep abreast of changes in the law; Perform other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS Meet the certification requirements detailed in the next section; Demonstrate a genuine interest in the needs and legal rights of low‑income people and specific interest in assisting members of the community with legal advice and information related to issues of domestic violence; Bilingual ability is required (Spanish/English); Superior interpersonal, oral and written communication skills; Ability to conduct client interviews, investigations, legal research, analytical reasoning ability, case review and problem solving; Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse groups of individuals and organizations including ability to provide leadership within a culturally diverse group; Must maintain effective interpersonal relationships at all organizational levels and with the public; Competency/experience with PC systems and standard software (Microsoft Office, Access, Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and other relevant databases); Reliable transportation, a valid CA Drivers’ License with appropriate car insurance. CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS Education, training and experience sufficient to meet the requirements of Business & Professions Code § 6450, including documentation of at least one of the following: A certificate of completion of a paralegal program approved by the American Bar Association; A certificate of completion of a paralegal program, or a degree from a postsecondary institution that requires the successful completion of a minimum of 24 semester (or equivalent) units in law‑related courses and that has been accredited by a national or regional accrediting organization or approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education; A baccalaureate degree or an advanced degree in any subject, a minimum of one year of law‑related experience under the supervision of an attorney who has been an active member of the State Bar of California for at least the preceding three years or who has practiced in the federal courts of this state for at least the preceding three years, and a written declaration from this attorney stating that the person is qualified to perform paralegal tasks; A high school diploma or general equivalency diploma, a minimum of three years of law‑related experience under the supervision of an attorney who has been an active member of the State Bar of California for at least the preceding three years or who has practiced in the federal courts of this state for at least the preceding three years, and a written declaration from this attorney stating that the person is qualified to perform paralegal tasks. CCLS BENEFITS PACKAGE OVERVIEW Work/Life Balance 7.5 hour work day / 37.5 hour week Free wellness counseling & resources Union protection for applicable positions Rewards for Dedication Annual pay increases Overtime for Hourly/Non‑exempt staff Compensatory Time for Salaried/Exempt staff More than Base Pay School Loan Assistance up to $500/month Bilingual Pay up to $90/month Home internet reimbursement of $25/month CCLS issued laptop & cell phone CA State Bar dues paid in full Mileage reimbursement Retirement Contribution CCLS contributes to staff 403(b) plans starting at the one‑year anniversary: Year 1 to 2 – 1% of salary contributed Year 2 to 3 – 2% of salary contributed Year 3 to 4 – 3% of salary contributed Year 4 to 5 – 4% of salary contributed Year 5+ - 5% of salary contributed Group Health Insurance Coverage begins 1st of the month following hire date CCLS pays 100% for staff health insurance coverage CCLS pays 67% of staff dependent health insurance coverage Long term disability & life insurance Workers Compensation coverage Cash Out Options Accrued vacation cashed out & added to paycheck upon request OT paid out within 30 days of accrual, per State standards Computer Loan Fund Up to $1,500 interest free loan to assist staff with personal computer purchase State Bar Exam Leave & Loan Protected leave for CA Bar Exam Interest‑free loan for Bar Exam & study course fees Central California Legal Services (Main Branch) #J-18808-Ljbffr