PLSE is seeking to hire a Paralegal for our Criminal Records Expungement Project (C-REP). While PLSE expects to obtain funding to make it a permanent, full-time position as of July 1, the position is currently funded only until June 30 and is therefore a temporary position. The successful applicant for the temporary position will negotiate with the Managing Attorney the number of hours to be worked per week.
Responsibilities include creating, reviewing, and finalizing expungement petitions for filing with the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. The Paralegal will also participate in intake clinics, interview and collect information from new clients, notify clients of court dates and decisions, file maintenance, and other administrative duties as required. The Paralegal will also go to court as required to assist the attorneys, and provide information to clients under the supervision of PLSE attorneys.
The ideal candidate will have had some personal or family experience with the criminal justice system. Aptitude for or demonstrated skill in client interviewing is required.
Required Qualifications: • High school diploma or GED • High computer literacy and ability to learn new technology and systems • Ability to travel to Philadelphia neighborhoods not always accessible by mass transit • Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends (when intake clinics are often held) • Demonstrated initiative and problem solving ability • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work/interact well in a small group environment • Willingness to work as part of a team • Ability to welcome new clients from many different backgrounds and quickly establish trust to discuss sensitive topics • Demonstrated commitment to social and economic justice Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree, or certificate in paralegal studies. Experience working in a law office. Experience with a social services agency or a nonprofit organization that advocates on behalf of low-income clients. Fluency in Spanish.