Paralegal - Access to Counsel in Evictions (ACE) PGC

**A RESUME AND COVER LETTER ARE REQUIRED TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION**

Maryland Legal Aid (MLA) provides life-changing civil legal assistance to eligible residents in every part of the State. Since 1911, MLA has provided high-quality legal services to low-income, and marginalized individuals and communities-helping them remedy their civil legal issues and become empowered to overcome challenges, achieve stability and independence, and an overall better life.

MLA is dedicated to preserving the basic human needs and basic human rights of clients, particularly as they navigate the justice system. MLA staff, pro bono attorneys, community partners, and general supporters all play important roles in ensuring that the legal playing field is leveled so that those most in need achieve equal access to justice. It is because of this diverse support that MLA is able to be a voice to tens of thousands of economically disadvantaged and vulnerable Marylanders every year.

JOB SUMMARY:

MLA is committed to fully expanding the right to counsel to all Marylanders facing eviction and is proud to announce its participation in the Access to Counsel in Eviction (ACE) Program. ACE has two (2) paralegal positions in our Prince George's County office available for those who are passionate about public interest law and social justice and want to work closely with communities burdened by systemic socioeconomic barriers to prevent eviction and homelessness. Because the COVID-19 pandemic has disparately impacted the communities we represent, eviction prevention legal services are more critical now than ever. Maryland Courts have reopened and cases are being scheduled at an explosive pace and there has never been a greater need for tenant representation in landlord-tenant cases than now. ACE paralegals are extremely committed, collegial, and hard-working team. This is a great place to start or build your legal career and gain valuable litigation skills while combating the threat of eviction and homelessness.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Handle caseload and represent clients in court for full representation and same-day representation in Failure to Pay Rent, and Escrow cases. This work involves litigation as well as assisting with extensive communication with clients, intense negotiations with opposing counsel, frequent motion practice, discovery, depositions, and significant advocacy with outside agencies on behalf of clients.
• Assist attorneys in all aspects of representation for Failure to Pay Rent, Tenant Holding Over, Breach of Lease and Escrow matters.
• Handle litigation before administrative agencies as necessary, including HABC, HUD, and Section 8 and other local housing authorities' termination of tenancy proceedings and other proceedings where clients' housing subsidies are being terminated.
• Participate in client intake in person, online, and by phone and client and community outreach initiatives.
• Continue professional development and education through attendance at trainings and other programs sponsored by Maryland Legal Aid.
• Maintain case records for clients in the LegalServer case management system.
• Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the essential functions of the position.
• All of the above duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience withprinciples of civil law, judicial procedures, and rules of evidence .
• Ability to use a computer, web-based applications, and computer programs such as Office 365 including Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent research, critical thinking, writing, and communication skills.
• Self-starter with ability to juggle multiple priorities and meet regular deadlines in a fast-paced environment while balancing a full workload.
• Ability to provide quality legal advocacy and representation for low-income, diverse client base.
• Ability to travel locally and regionally in Maryland as needed.
• Knowledge of Westlaw Edge or other legal research software is a plus.
• Prior experience and/or interest in public-interest litigation or providing nonprofit legal services is a plus.
• Spanish language proficiency is desirable.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS

• Use of manual dexterity, tactile, visual, and audio acuity.
• Use of repetitive motion of hands, wrists and feet, prolonged periods of sitting and standing, and sustained visual and mental applications and demands.
• Occasional lifting up to 10 pounds, bending, kneeling pulling, and carrying.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work duties are typically performed in a general office setting with regular interaction via telephone, videoconference, instant messaging and email, in-person and in a courtroom. Certain work duties may be performed in community settings.

BENEFITS

The salary range for this position is $42, 713.00 - $78,713.00. In addition, MLA provides employees with a generous benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, 2 weeks paid time off, paid sick leave, 14 annual paid holidays, and more! Future flexibility regarding a hybrid work arrangement is a possibility after the onboarding period. Eligibility to apply for the Maryland Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program (LARP).

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Please submit a resume, legal writing sample, and cover letter describing your interest and qualifications with your online application.
• References will be required at time of the final interview.
• No telephone calls please. Position will remain open until filled.

Maryland Legal Aid is committed to equity, justice and inclusion. As an equal opportunity employer, MLA seeks to hire individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives that are reflective of the communities we serve, including people with disabilities, people of color, women and members of traditionally underrepresented groups.