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For 40 years, Equip for Equality has been advancing the human and civil rights of people with disabilities across Illinois. Among our many accomplishments, Equip for Equality has made Chicago public transportation more accessible, helped tens of thousands of people with disabilities move from institutions into the community, increased inclusive education and educational outcomes for students with disabilities, and enhanced safety and quality of care in a variety of settings. We have offices throughout Illinois.We strive to be a mission-driven, inclusive, and diverse workplace. Our staff includes more than 40 attorneys, social workers, and staff committed to creating a more equitable society. The paralegal will be an integral member of the Civil Rights Team, assisting with client intake and advocacy.
We are seeking a Paralegal to join our Civil Rights Team. The paralegal will primarily conduct client intake interviews, provide advocacy support, and work with attorneys in advancing disability rights cases. The Paralegal will report to the Intake Manager and may be located in any of EFE’s Illinois offices. The work will primarily be remote, with occasional statewide travel, including overnight trips.
The paralegal will perform duties within the Civil Rights Team.
Conducting client intake interviews, which will make up approximately 90% of responsibilities, will include:
- Providing information and referrals.
- Communicating with clients via phone and written correspondence.
- Consulting with attorneys regarding intakes and case strategy.
- Maintaining accurate electronic case files and managing client information.
- Conducting non-legal research as assigned.
Additional Responsibilities (10%), which may include:
Supporting the Vice President for Civil Rights and Systemic Litigation.
- Assisting with outreach, training, and occasional travel (including overnight trips).
- Other duties as assigned.
This position reports to the Intake Manager of the Civil Rights Team and may be located in any of EFE’s offices across the state. The work will primarily be remote.
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and data management.
- Demonstrated commitment to civil rights and disability rights.
- Experience working with low-income and diverse populations.
Preferred:
- Paralegal certificate or previous paralegal experience.
- Experience (personal or professional) with people with disabilities.
- Fluency in Spanish or other languages used by our clients.
- Knowledge of the ADA and other disability rights laws.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary Range: $46,874-$70,312 annually (commensurate with experience)
- Comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, retirement plan, and generous paid leave.
APPLICATION DEADLINE, HOW TO APPLY
Equip for Equality encourages qualified candidates of all backgrounds and identities to apply for this position.
Applicants should apply by the close of business on Friday, August 15, 2025. Applications will not be considered without a resume, cover letter, and salary expectations.
Click the Link to Apply
Background Check
All conditional offers are subject to a background check, conducted in compliance with all applicable laws and paid for by EFE. A disclosed record will not automatically disqualify a candidate. If the employee works with Social Security beneficiaries, a separate background check conducted by the Social Security Administration will be required.
- $46,874 - $70,312/year
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