The Paralegal works with and at the direction of the Attorney to ensure responsible and timely delivery of legal services for domestic violence victims seeking protective orders, divorces, and child custody/support in Fort Bend family courts. Position is located at AVDA’s Stafford office.
Responsibilities
• Interview client and review questionnaire in order to select, assemble, summarize, and compile substantial information
• Prepare all court documents and pleadings
• Organize client information for court appearances, including interview of witnesses
• Legal research, including file review in court
• Perform all aspects of discovery
• Subpoena any records that may be needed for hearings
• Advise and discuss issues of the case with client
• Assist Attorney in court on an as-needed basis
• Negotiate with opposing counsel under the Attorney’s direction
• Ensure all aspects of scheduling orders are fulfilled
• Complete intakes for new client calls and provide victims with crisis counseling, information, referrals, and advocacy as assigned
• In conjunction with Client Advocates, ensure that legal clients receive safety planning, information and referral and personal/legal advocacy in accordance with the agency philosophy and following agency procedures
• Utilize the electronic case management system and complete and submit service logs, litigation reports, timesheets and other paperwork in a timely manner and in accordance with agency procedures
• Provide on-the-job training, supervision and support for student interns and volunteers working in the legal program
• Provide a range of civil legal services as well as community outreach and education to victims of domestic violence pursuant to assigned grant guidelines
• Perform other duties as assigned
