Paralegal

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

POSITION: Paralegal (Full-Time) Hybrid

CLOSING DATE: Position Immediately Available and Closed When Filled

LOCATION: North and West Texas

Abilene, Amarillo, Brownwood, Dallas, Denton, Farmers Branch, Fort Worth, Lubbock, Mckinney, Midland, Odessa, Plainview, San Angelo, Waxahachie, Weatherford, Wichita Falls Texas

ABOUT LANWT:

Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas (LANWT) is a non-profit public interest law firm that provides high-quality, free civil legal services to low-income individuals and families in 114 counties across North and West Texas. Our mission is to ensure equal access to justice and improve the lives of low-income communities by providing high-quality legal representation, strategic litigation, valuable legal advice and meaningful collaborations, outreach, and community education.

JOB OVERVIEW:

LANWT seeks dynamic, self-motivated Paralegals with vision, initiative, and a strong commitment to public interest law to join our team. We have multiple openings across various branch offices and practice areas throughout our North and West Texas service area.


Applicants may be considered for more than one position and location. Candidates will be able to indicate preferred office location(s) and area(s) of interest during the application process.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under the direct supervision and authority of a licensed attorney, the Paralegal provides legal support and advocacy services in accordance with LANWT policies, the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct, the Texas Lawyer's Creed, and applicable ABA standards. The Paralegal does not practice law independently. Core responsibilities include:

• Provide paraprofessional legal assistance to eligible clients in civil and family law matters, consistent with program priorities and attorney supervision.
• Conduct client intake, screening, and referrals; create and maintain accurate electronic case files.
• Assist with case development through client interviews, fact gathering, research, and investigation.
• Draft pleadings, orders, correspondence, and other legal documents; file documents in person or via e-filing; coordinate hearings; and communicate with courts, opposing parties, and clients.
• Support attorneys and advocates in client representation and community-based work, including participation in outreach and legal education efforts as assigned.
• Maintain organized, up-to-date case records and track case status, statistics, and required reporting.
• Develop and maintain knowledge in assigned legal practice areas and stay current on laws, procedures, and issues affecting LANWT's client population.
• Build relationships with social service agencies and make appropriate client referrals.
• Provide translation or interpretation for clients when applicable.
• Participate in training, staff meetings, and supervision; seek guidance as needed.
• Travel to courts, agencies, and community locations in support of casework.
• Maintain a working knowledge of grant and funding requirements to ensure compliance obligations are met.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Managing Attorney, Deputy Director, or CEO.

Paralegals may work in one or more civil practice areas, depending on office needs and candidate experience. Current openings may include areas such as:

• Housing law
• Family law
• Consumer rights and bankruptcy
• Employment, including tax law
• Public benefits and Social Security
• Probate
• Foreclosure prevention
• Education and health law
• Other general civil legal areas

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate's degree and paralegal certification, preferred.
• Spanish fluency (verbal and written), preferred.
• Strong organizational skills; detail-oriented, self-motivated, and able to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; professional and courteous interpersonal abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and related computer applications.
• Ability to manage emotions well and handle interactions calmly and professionally with clients and colleagues.
• Ability to work independently while exercising sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality under attorney supervision.
• Strong work ethic, accountability, and professionalism.
• Ability to travel occasionally and maintain reliable attendance.

This position requires regular use of a computer, occasional lifting of files or materials, and travel to courts and community locations. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

SALARY: Current entry-level salary is $40,150 per year. The salary for the successful candidate may be significantly higher, based on candidate's years of experience. The paralegal is a non-exempt employee subject to state and federal wage and hour laws.

BENEFITS: Excellent benefits package that includes paid vacation and holidays; a retirement plan; health, dental, vision and life insurance.

Please submit a cover letter expressing interest, a resume, and three professional references during the application process.

Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. LANWT does 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 status.

VETERANS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY