Kitsap Legal Services (KLS) is a non-profit organization that provides free legal services to low-income individuals in Kitsap County, Washington.
KLS is looking for a highly motivated, outgoing, detail-oriented, and organized person to join our team. The key to success in this role is managing a high level of responsibility and a desire to help with an expedited sense of urgency. This position supports two attorneys representing low-income clients in all phases of the eviction process.
JOB DUTIES:
- Complete intakes with clients and maintain legal files and records using KLAS’s case management system.
- Prepare and edit correspondence, legal pleadings and other documents independently and consistent with attorney instructions.
- Assist in filing pleadings, recording documents, and arranging service of process.
- Assist in client communication, fact development, legal research, and community outreach/education where appropriate.
- Support attorneys in all aspects of litigation including, but not limited to, filing affirmative litigation, discovery, working with experts, trial, etc.
- Manage litigation and office calendars.
- Coordinate client/ interpreter/attorney scheduling, communicate regularly with advocates and clients, and assist attorneys with work related to community engagement and/or legal clinics.
- Perform investigative work (research facts, gather discovery, access data bases etc.) as requested.
- Maintain a professional working relationship with clients and the community.
- Complete other clerical/administrative/office tasks as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience:
· AA Degree (or equivalent schooling) or higher and 2 or more years of legal assistant experience
or 5 years of experience in lieu of education.
· Experience working with low-income clients preferred.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Possess strong organizational/time management skills: successfully manage multiple duties/tasks and deadlines and prioritize work.
- Produce work with the highest level of accuracy and detail.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet last-minute deadlines.
- Take initiative and have the ability to problem solve effectively and independently.
- Possess strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Demonstrated experience and knowledge of Washington State court rules, and Kitsap County Superior Court procedures and local rules; or a willingness to learn these procedures and rules.
- Intermediate/advanced computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel and Outlook and be open to learning new software applications.
- Basic knowledge and ability to use the technological resources available in the courts and justice system in Washington State (JIS, Odyssey, etc.).
- Use and operate office machines such as copiers, scanners, and phones (including answering systems), etc. effectively.
- Demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity in working with diverse clients, communities, and colleagues.
- Manage stress and work calmly under pressure.
- Experience supporting attorneys in all aspects of litigation.
- Ability to work within a team environment and to work independently.
- A valid Washington driver’s license and insurance. Some local travel in own vehicle may be required.
Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Experience with unlawful detainer procedures and/or Washington landlord/tenant law.
- Exposure to and comfort working with interpreters.
- Experience supporting the work of multiple attorneys at the same time.
- Spanish fluency preferred.
A letter of interest, resume’, and three professional references will be required to be considered.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $22.00 - $23.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
Schedule:
Education:
Experience:
- Customer Service: 2 years (Preferred)
- Legal: 2 years (Required)
- Microsoft Office: 2 years (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Bremerton, WA 98337: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person