Disability Rights Arkansas (DRA) is an Arkansas non-profit organization with funding and authorization from the federal government to serve as the Protection and Advocacy system for individuals with disabilities in Arkansas. DRA pursues administrative, legal, and other appropriate remedies to ensure the protection of people with disabilities in Arkansas. Cases include special education, employment, housing discrimination, abuse and neglect, right to treatment, and freedom from harm. DRA pursues system change advocacy in addition to individual case advocacy.
DRA provides services to individuals with disabilities, including information, referral, technical assistance, legal representation, and investigation of abuse and neglect allegations. DRA also develops, publishes, and distributes advocacy materials, participates in advocacy training, and monitors, analyzes, and comments on regulations, plans, budgets, policies, or proposed legislation that may affect the rights of people with disabilities.
Position Openings
Job Type Paralegal
Full-time
Description
We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Paralegal to support our legal and administrative teams.
The Paralegal will work closely with the Legal Director, Staff Attorneys, Disability Rights Advocates and Administrative staff to provide comprehensive legal support, administrative support, conduct research, draft legal documents, and assist in case management.
This role is vital in ensuring the efficient operation of our legal services, enabling us to serve our clients effectively and advocate for social justice.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Legal Research:
a. Conduct legal research on case law, statutes, regulations, and other relevant legal authorities to support attorneys in case preparation and strategy.
Document Drafting and Review:
a. Prepare and draft legal documents, including pleadings, motions, releases, and agreements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legal procedures.
b. Review and edit legal documents prepared by attorneys for accuracy and completeness.
Case Management:
a. Assist in organizing and managing case files, maintaining documentation, and tracking case-related deadlines and appointments.
b. Communicate with clients, witnesses, and other stakeholders to gather necessary information and documents for legal proceedings.
Court Filings and Administrative Tasks:
a. Prepare and assist with filing legal documents with courts, government agencies, and other entities, ensuring adherence to filing deadlines and requirements.
b. Handle administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments, managing calendars, and coordinating meetings related to legal matters.
c. Responsible for the daily mail room drop-off and distribution.
d. Assist with managing voice-mail message distribution.
e. Responsible for meeting and greeting visitors and completing the in-take process for new clients.
Legal Support:
a. Support attorneys during client meetings, hearings, and trials by preparing necessary materials, taking notes, and providing general assistance.
b. Collaborate with external partners, experts, and other legal professionals as required for case-related activities.
Compliance and Reporting:
a. Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations, maintaining accurate records and documentation for reporting purposes.
b. Assist in preparing reports and presentations on legal activities and outcomes for internal and external stakeholders.
Requirements
- Associate’s degree with certificate of completion from an approved paralegal certification program or relevant experience preferred.
- Understanding of legal language and principles, research methods, court pleadings and processes, and other related matters.
- Two years previous experience working as a paralegal for a non-profit organization or law firm specializing in nonprofit law is highly desirable.
- Proficiency in legal research tools, document management systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
- Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Commitment to social justice and the mission of the nonprofit sector.
Salary Description
$50,000 per year
If you require an accommodation during the application process, please notify DRA Human Resources. Requests may be made in person, by telephone at 501-296-1775, or by U.S. mail – Attn: Human Resources 400 West Capitol, Suite 1200 Little Rock, AR 72201.
Benefits
DRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in any aspect of employment with regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran’s status, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. Individuals who increase the diversity of our team are encouraged to apply.