Paralegal-Disability Advocacy Project (DAP)

Job Title: Staff Paralegal – Disability Advocacy Project (DAP) 

Classification: Non-Exempt Professional, eligible for Collective Bargaining Unit membership  

Reports to: Unit Supervising Attorney  

Organization Overview: 

Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc. (NLS) is the largest provider of civil legal services in Western New York with two offices in Buffalo, including the central office and offices in Batavia, Lockport, and Niagara Falls. This position is based in Buffalo. NLS advocates for thousands of clients each year, including clients who are facing eviction, families who have no money for food or rent, survivors and victims of domestic violence, members of the LGBTQ+ community, veterans, and people with disabilities. We invite you to join our team and to use your talents and skills to help people and change systems. 

Job Summary: 

NLS seeks a Paralegal to work in its DAP Unit. The unit assists low-income clients with mental and/or physical health impairments and disabilities obtain and maintain Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income benefits. NLS represents clients in administrative hearings and appeals. The Paralegal will assist DAP attorneys in case development, client communications, and provide support for the administrative and operational needs of the unit.  

Essential Functions: 

• Manage caseload and assigned tasks, including providing clients with information and advice under attorney supervision. 
• Screen clients and complete intake questionnaires when required by office conditions.
• Gather necessary medical and vocational records from clients, insurance carriers, health care providers and schools.
• Correspond with insurance carriers, the Department of Social Services, case managers from area social service, housing, and medical and mental health service providers to develop evidence and assist clients in their claim for disability benefits. 
• Assist attorneys with file preparation and organization for hearings and appeals.
• Assist in the review, organization, and management of legal documents and medical records. 
• Enter case information into NLS’ case management system, LegalServer.
• File management, including scanning medical records and other documents to LegalServer.
• Maintain accurate and complete records and files regarding cases and projects assigned.

• Provide direct support and assistance to DAP attorneys.
• Maintain accurate and complete records and files regarding assigned cases.
• Participate in community outreach, education, and training efforts.

Required Qualifications and Core Competencies: 

• College degree, paralegal certification or equivalent experience .
• Experience working with vulnerable populations and knowledge of community resources.
• Self-motivated and dependable.
• knowledge of Microsoft programs, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Exceptional listening, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with an ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team, demonstrating leadership and initiative.
• Commitment to the mission and clients of the legal services program.

Compensation & Benefits: 

Salary range is $46,610 -$76,435, depending upon experience. Full-time position with a thirty-five (35) hour work week and shorter summer hours. Excellent benefits including health, dental and vision insurance, fifteen (15) vacation days; twelve (12) paid holidays plus paid week off between Christmas and New Year’s; sick and personal leave; eligibility for public student loan forgiveness; paid $50,000 life insurance, pension plan, HRA, and Flexible Spending Accounts.