Consumer Paralegal

Job Title: Paralegal - Social Security Unit

Location: Downtown Jacksonville Office

Type: Full-Time

Work Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Job Overview: We are seeking an experienced paralegal for our Social Security Unit. Must be able to work in a demanding environment and handle applicants from varied backgrounds in a gracious and professional manner. This is a full-time position based out of our downtown Jacksonville office.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Maintain knowledge of administrative law and procedures related to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
• Conduct intake and comprehensive legal screening for potential new clients.
• Represent clients by undertaking such activities as: interview and initial fact gathering, factual and legal research, devise, review, revise and implement the strategy for going forward, prepare a case for hearing, draft legal papers, negotiate, present evidence, interrogate witnesses, oral advocacy, and properly prepare the client and maintain an ongoing relationship.
• Provide litigation support to attorneys including, but not limited to, drafting letters, pleadings, discovery, records requests, and outreach materials.
• Provide advice and referral to individuals not accepted as clients and make appropriate referrals.
• Participate in maintaining good community relations by acting as a liaison between community groups and the staff. Tasks may include, without limitation: outreach and community education to client groups and social service agency personnel; advocacy training in legal rights and entitlement.
• Maintain knowledge of the case acceptance criteria of other units in our office to facilitate appropriate internal referrals.
• Maintain case files and accurate timekeeping in electronic case management system.
• Track data related to grant and assist on related reporting.
• Assist attorneys with administrative tasks.
• Maintain proficiency with equipment and technology necessary to perform the duties of the position.
• Other duties as determined by the Supervising Attorney(s).

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's Degree preferred.
• Fluency in Spanish is a plus.
• Familiarity with public benefit program eligibility criteria preferred.
• Knowledge of and experience with the Social Security Administration application process preferred.
• Experience and comfort interacting with people living in poverty, older adults, people with physical, mental and cognitive disabilities, immigrants, and people with limited English proficiency required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.
• Personal background, experience, or professional background should reflect an ability to work effectively in cross-cultural situations with clients, co-workers and the community we serve.
• Good organizational and information-gathering skills as well as strong and versatile computer skills are essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively with others and to draft documents including letters and basic pleadings is essential.

Ascendo is a certified minority owned staffing firm, we welcome and celebrate diversity. Ascendo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, retaliation, parental status, military service or any non-merit factor.

Ascendo is a certified minority owned staffing firm, and we welcome and celebrate diversity. Ascendo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, parental status, military service or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Contact information

Laura Jones

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